How Common is Nursing Home Abuse?
Deciding whether to place your parent, guardian, or loved ones into a long-term care facility is a tough decision. However, that decision is even more difficult when reports of abuse in nursing homes are on the rise.
There are roughly 1.4 million people that live in nursing home facilities in the United States. According to the National Council of Aging, nearly 5 million cases of abuse occur each year, with only around 7% of them being reported.
Recognizing the Signs
If you fear that your loved one is being neglected or abused in a nursing home, then it is crucial to address it as soon as possible. Even if your loved one denies any abuse or neglect, you should still monitor for any issues.
Many surveys have been conducted showing that residents of long-term care facilities avoid reporting their abusers because they feel like a burden to their families. By reporting the incidents, residents feel like it would cause an inconvenience to their families. Because of this, always be thorough if you notice a sign that makes you think abuse could be taking place.
Common Signs
Usually, with our family members and loved ones, we can tell when things seem off. Several signs to watch out for include:
- Poor hygiene
- Poor living conditions
- New or worsening depression in the resident
- Bedsores
- Bruises
- Unexplained skin tears or abrasions
- Burns
- Unreported injuries that go untreated
- The resident behaves anxiously around the nursing home staff
Types of Abuse
Most reported abuse is physical or mental. However, abuse can also include sexual harassment and financial exploitation.
Acquiring Maximum Compensation
If you think your loved one is suffering abuse in their nursing home, our lawyers at Obenshain Law Group are here to help. Our team can help you evaluate a potential abuse or neglect claim and obtain fair compensation from the liable party.
Do not wait. Call our office at (540) 318-7360 to schedule your free consultation.
