Posted on Thursday, January 31st, 2019 at 1:54 am
Elderly individuals may not be able to speak up when they are being subjected to abuse or neglect. Therefore, it is important to watch for common signs of elder abuse in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and private residences. It may not be possible to be by the side of your loved one all the time. However, you can look for the five common signs of elder abuse each time you visit with your loved one so you can stop the neglect and abuse before it happens again.
Malnutrition
Elderly individuals may lose weight for a variety of reasons. However, if you notice signs of malnutrition, seek medical attention immediately. Your loved one may be experiencing a natural decline in appetite that often accompanies aging, but the weight loss could also be a side effect of an illness, condition, or medication. Weight loss can also be a sign of malnutrition and neglect.
Bedsores
Bedsores are another common sign of neglect. Elderly patients may not be able to turn over or get out of bed without assistance. When someone remains in the same position for hours at a time, the person may develop painful bedsores. Bedsores can become infected and result in life-threatening conditions. Moving patients at regular intervals should prevent bedsores. If your loved one has bedsores, he or she may be neglected by the staff members.
Financial and Property Loss
If you notice money or property missing, you need to investigate immediately. Financial abuse is a common form of elderly abuse. Someone may take advantage of your loved one by stealing money or possessions. Another form of financial abuse is failing to use spending money for a resident’s needs or convincing a resident to sign credit card applications or other financial documents for the benefit of another person.
Fear or Depression
Depression and anxiety may be common for some elderly individuals; however, it is not a typical symptom of aging. If your loved one is displaying the symptoms of depression or shows signs of fear or anxiety, you may need to investigate further to determine if staff members or other patients are abusing your loved one.
Unexplained Injuries
Elderly individuals do have a higher risk for falls, but falls may not explain all injuries. If you notice unexplained injuries, seek medical attention immediately. Unexplained injuries are usually a common sign of nursing home abuse and elder abuse.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse?
If you suspect elder abuse, notify the police if the person is in immediate danger. You can also contact the Adult Protective Services agency for your county. County APS agencies investigate claims of elder abuse and nursing home abuse.
You may also want to contact a Sacramento elder abuse attorney to discuss a legal claim for damages. Your loved one may be entitled to compensation from the party or parties responsible for the abuse or neglect. Holding parties liable for damages in elder abuse cases is an important way you can shine a light on a serious problem.
For a free consultation with a Sacramento elder abuse attorney, contact The Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website.
