Nursing Home Abuse

As the population of nursing home residents increases, the opportunities for abuse are rampant. Review the following information to learn more about nursing home abuse.

Victims of Nursing Home Abuse

In general, nursing home abuse is defined as an intentional or negligent act performed by any caregiver that causes harm or puts a patient at serious risk of harm, including physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, abandonment, isolation, abduction, and any other treatment that results in physical injury or mental suffering.

Signs of Abuse or Neglect

While signs of abuse do not always indicate that abuse is present in a particular nursing home facility, a combination of the following may merit further investigation: bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, or burns; withdrawal from normal activities or a sudden change in alertness and/or depression; sudden financial changes; bedsores and other unattended medical conditions; sudden weight loss; changes in relationships with loved ones (belittling words, threats, or other controlling acting out); strained relationships between the caregiver and the patient. If you notice one or more of these signs, you should report the problem to the facility's management and/or law enforcement officials.

Contact an Attorney

If you suspect that your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can review your claim and ensure your loved one's rights are protected and that justice is obtained. If appropriate, the victim may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for damages. In the event that your loved one's death was caused by nursing home abuse, a wrongful death claim may be pursued.