subject: Signs of Elder Abuse [print this page] While many nursing homes or assisted living centers provide excellent care and treatment, it is a well known and sad fact that some residents of nursing homes or assisted living centers are the victims of elder abuse and neglect at the hands of undertrained and uncaring staff members and employees.
The Most Common Signs of Elder Abuse
The following signs of elder abuse are seen in nursing homes and assisted living centers throughout the country:
Open wounds, bruises and sores
Chronic infections
Poor personal hygiene care
Unreasonable use of physical restraints
Deprivation of water and food
Administration of large doses of medications that control behavior
Withholding needed medication
Unexplained injuries
Depression and anxiety
Elderly resident is withdrawn or agitated
Financial Exploitation of the Elderly
A form of elder abuse that has come to light in recent years is financial exploitation of the elderly. Financial exploitation takes many forms and can include a caregiver who steals, withholds or misuses an elderly individual's money, property or possessions for their own personal profit or gain without the knowledge or consent of the elderly person. In addition, a caregiver may promise life-long care in return of money, property or possessions to which they are not entitled.
The Consequences of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
The consequences of nursing home abuse and neglect can be devastating and often lead to dehydration, malnutrition and eventually even death. Elder abuse and neglect often goes unreported and unnoticed until it is too late.
Under the law, nursing home residents are supposed to be guaranteed certain rights, such as the right to receive humane, courteous and dignified treatment. Nursing home residents have the right to be free of verbal, mental, physical and sexual abuse and the right to expect adequate medical care and treatment. Nursing home abuse and neglect can involve complex legal issues involving medical malpractice, premises liability or wrongful death.
