Signs of Nursing Home or Assisted Living Abuse
Long-term care abuse and neglect may be physical, medical, or emotional. Family members should participate in a loved one’s care and become familiar with their physical state, medicine regimen and living environment.
The following are signs that your loved one may be receiving inadequate or inappropriate care:
- rapid deterioration of health and/or mental capacities
- unexplained bruises or lacerations
- unexplained trips to the hospital
- injuries from falls
- injuries from wandering or elopement
- pressure ulcers or bedsores
- appears fearful or intimidated
- always seems to be in bed (not getting proper exercise or environment change)
- excessive use of physical or chemical restraints for staff convenience
All policies and procedures for the facility should be implemented the same for all residents regardless of the type or source of payment. Residents and/or their legal representatives have the right to file a complaint with the state survey agency and Ombudsman if abuse or neglect is suspected.
If you suspect abuse or neglect, please go to the proper authorities. Until such time as federal and state lawmakers adopt new reforms of the health care delivery system to the elderly and disabled, Motley Rice will continue to fight for the rights of this defenseless population.
If you or someone you know is interested in seeking legal recourse for injuries that may be a result of nursing home or assisted living abuse or neglect, contact attorney Kimberly Barone Baden (CA, SC) by email or call +1 800.768.4026.
