With so many of our society’s elders in nursing and care homes, we would like to think the employee’s respect and understand how to properly care for these adults. While many employees treat these patients with the utmost care, there are some who abuse and neglect these residents. Keep reading to learn the signs of nursing home abuse you must look out for if you have a loved one in long-term care, and discover how a Pike County, KY nursing home abuse lawyer can help you receive justice.
What Are the Types of Nursing Home Abuse That Can Occur?
Unfortunately, there are a number of ways the residents of nursing homes can suffer at the hands of their caretakers. Some may be subjected to abuse or neglect when in the care of a home. Abuse is the intentional infliction of pain and injury or depriving someone of the necessary care as a means of punishment. Neglect can be intentional or unintentional and is the failure to provide someone with the necessary care to prevent harm, pain, and anxiety.
Generally, there are two kinds of abuse and neglect- physical and verbal. They include the following actions:
- Assault (punching, slapping, pushing, shaking, etc.)
- Failure to care for existing problems
- Sexual assault and rape
- Food and water deprivation
- Using unauthorized physical restraints or sedative medications
What Are the Common Signs?
If your loved one is in the care of others, it is essential to recognize the signs of abuse. These include:
- Bed sores
- Infections
- Emotional changes
- Dehydration and malnutrition
- Unexplainable injuries
- Extreme changes in behavior
- Fear of staff
- Unsanitary conditions
Though it is upsetting to think about your loved one suffering in a nursing home, keeping an eye out for these behaviors can help ensure they receive the care they deserve while holding the abusive and neglectful parties responsible.
What Should I Do if I Suspect Abuse?
If you believe your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, you must take the necessary steps to help. If your loved one is in immediate danger, you should call emergency services to help them receive the necessary medical attention.
You should also call your local nursing home abuse hotline or contact Kentucky’s Adult Protective Services. This will help launch an investigation into the home to ensure they are operating according to the set standards and laws while ensuring the other residents are safe and well cared for.
When you discover that your elderly loved one has suffered at the hands of their caretaker, you may not know where to turn. Shane Hall Attorney At Law, is ready to help you. Our dedicated legal teams understand how overwhelming this can be, and we will do everything possible to fight for justice. Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your loved one.
