Nursing Home Abuse Warning Signs: Protecting Your Loved Ones

Nursing home abuse and neglect can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Whatever form it takes, abuse can have devastating consequences, especially for elderly individuals who are already in fragile states of health. Because abuse and neglect in assisted living facilities is so dangerous and unacceptable, family members should be focused on understanding common warning signs so as to better protect their loved ones.

Signs of Emotional or Sexual Abuse
Emotional and sexual abuse are often the most difficult forms of abuse to detect. Unfortunately, they may also be the most devastating. When elderly individuals are psychologically or emotionally abused verbally, bullied, harassed, or socially isolated, they may express such treatment in the following ways:

  • Unexpected or uncharacteristic changes in behavior.
  • Becoming more isolated or withdrawn.
  • Less willing to communicate or talk.
  • Behavior consistent with depression, anxiety, or paranoia.

Signs of Physical Abuse
Physical abuse, as well as various types of neglect, can be apparent in an elderly individual's physical appearance. Take note of any bruising, difficulty walking or moving that is uncharacteristic of your loved one, and signs that a loved one may be covering signs of physical abuse. Other warning signs may include a decline in physical health, hygiene, the appearance or cleanliness of clothing, and the presence of bed sores.

Signs of Financial Abuse
Elderly individuals are vulnerable to financial exploitation, which can negatively impact their life and the lives of their loved ones. If you are able to do so, monitor your loved one's finances or pay attention to any unusual or large transactions, uncharacteristic purchases, or transfers to unknown accounts.

Ventura Elder Abuse Attorneys

Being aware of your loved one's well-being and the common signs of nursing home abuse or neglect is crucial. Because many elderly individuals are unable or unwilling to discuss the abuse themselves, it often becomes the responsibility of family members to detect, address, and end the abuse. With the help of our Ventura nursing home abuse lawyers at Ventura Injury Law Group, families and victims will also have the support needed to assert their rights, hold wrongdoers accountable, and recover the compensation they deserve.

To discuss your case and how our legal team can help, call (800) 462-7160 for a FREE consultation.

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