As our loved ones grow old, they are often unable to adequately care for themselves and need to be in an environment where they can receive 24/7 care to ensure their well-being. Nursing homes are meant to fulfill this need, and the right one can ease stress by providing care to loved ones. However, instances of wrongdoing and abuse at nursing homes are far too prevalent. The horrible reality is that nearly 1 in 3 nursing homes in the United States has been issued a citation for some sort of abuse. Therefore, it is crucial to know the signs of abuse and thoroughly check for them during visits.Â
If a loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
Signs of Physical Elder Abuse
Physical elder abuse is any intentional harm inflicted by a nursing home or assisted living facility staff member. Physical injuries can take months to heal and may even contribute to an elder’s death.
Signs of physical nursing home abuse include:
- Unexplained dislocations, sprains, or broken bones
- Bruising, scars, or welts on the body
- Signs of restraint
- Hair or tooth loss
- Increased stress and anxiety, such as panic attacks
- Withdrawal from social activity
If a loved one shows signs of physical nursing home abuse, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
Signs of Sexual Nursing Home Abuse
Elder sexual abuse is any action against an elder that is unwanted and sexual in origin. Elder sexual abuse also includes sexual contact with an elder who has mental illness or dementia and cannot communicate their disapproval of the behavior or cannot communicate consent.
Warning signs of sexual nursing home abuse include:
- Sustaining a pelvic injury
- Developing a sexually transmitted disease
- Panic attacks
- Signs of PTSD
- Torn, bloody, or stained underwear
- Having problems walking or sitting
If a loved one shows signs of sexual nursing home abuse, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
Signs of Emotional Nursing Home Abuse
Emotional abuse occurs when the elder is harmed through insults, yelling, or blatant ignoring by the caregiver. Emotional abuse may lead to depression and anxiety.Â
Warning signs of emotional nursing home abuse include:
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Engaging in self-harm
- New and unusual behavior such as mumbling, thumb-sucking, and rock back-and-forth
- Appearing depressed or withdrawn
- Panic attacks
- Isolation from friends and family
- Avoiding eye contact
If a loved one shows signs of emotional nursing home abuse, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
Signs of Financial Nursing Home Abuse
Elder financial abuse occurs at nursing homes when a caregiver financially exploits a resident. Financial nursing home abuse can be more challenging to spot because it may not physically affect the elder.
Warning signs of financial nursing home abuse include:
- Unexplained withdrawals that the elder could not have made
- Missing cash or belongings
- New changes to the elders will or power of attorney
- Changes in life insurance policies or property titles
- Changes in the elder’s financial situationÂ
If a loved one shows signs of financial nursing home abuse, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse by Neglect
Neglect occurs when the nursing home fails to care for the elder adequately. Neglect can cause serious harm to the elder and could even lead to death.
Warning signs of nursing home neglect include:
- Unusual weight loss and dehydration
- Presence of bed sores
- Living with soiled bedding, dirty clothing, and dirty conditions
- Unsafe living conditionsÂ
- Evidence that necessary medicine has not been taken by the elder
If a loved one shows signs of neglect by a nursing home, they or you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you notice signs of nursing home abuse inflicted on your loved one, there are several steps you can take:
- Call local police and file a report
- Connect with the nursing home ombudsman
- Contact Adult Protective Services (APS)
- Call a nursing home abuse hotline
If you believe a loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse, the best thing you can do is report the mistreatment as soon as possible. Doing so can help protect your loved one and prevent future abuse.
Get Justice for Your Loved One
Nursing homes have a duty to protect and care for their residents. If the facility fails to do this, it must be held accountable. If your loved one has experienced any nursing home abuse, they may be entitled to financial compensation for medical bills, mental health treatment, physical therapy, moving costs, and justice for pain and suffering.Â
Steve Watrel is Jacksonville’s premiere nursing home abuse attorney. For over 30 years, he has been fighting for justice for the sufferers of nursing home abuse and providing victims and family members compassionate care. You may be entitled to monetary compensation if you or a loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A., today for a free consultation. There is no obligation.
