Choosing to place an elderly family member in a nursing home or assisted living facility is a big decision. Each year, many families make the choice to move their older relatives from a home situation to a facility that can help support them. Our goal in any placement is to find a warm, supportive environment. Unfortunately, sometimes the facilities we choose don’t support our loved ones in the way we would expect. And that can result in nursing home abuse. Sadly, the situation is becoming an epidemic in the United States.
Nursing Home Abuse Numbers and Types
As many as 5 million senior citizens are abused each year, and it is thought that 1 in 10 have been abused. Nursing home abuse can include many things. Typically, physical abuse tops the list, but our parents and grandparents may also experience emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and even financial exploitation.
Evidence of abuse may include:
- bruises and cuts for which there are no explanations
- clothing and bedding that are torn, bloody, or soiled
- missing or broken personal items
- broken bones
- weight loss or weight gain that is not associated with an illness
- fear or cowering in the presence of certain caregivers
- lack of engagement with other residents
- medications being improperly administered
- expenses that are unaccounted for
If you fear that your loved one is experiencing nursing home abuse, there is help. Thompson Law firm is available to seek damages on behalf of those family members who are being abused and help you find better accommodations for them.
