Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse is a serious problem in the United States. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, as many as one in ten elderly Americans are victims of abuse each year. Nursing home abuse can take many different forms, from physical and sexual abuse to emotional neglect and financial exploitation.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of nursing home abuse, it is important to seek legal help right away. A lawyer can help you get justice and compensation for the harm that has been done to you. At Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC, we have experience helping victims of nursing home abuse get the justice they deserve.
Behavioral Changes
A sudden behavior change is often one of the earliest signs of nursing home abuse. The victim may start to withdraw from friends and family, or become agitated and anxious. They may also experience depression, which can manifest as a lack of energy, changes in eating habits, or problems sleeping.
One of the most common signs of emotional abuse is poor hygiene. The victim may start to neglect their hygiene or may appear unclean and disheveled. If you believe you’ve noticed signs of nursing home abuse, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Reach out to an elder abuse lawyer for guidance on emotional and other types of abuse.
Physical Signs of Abuse
If your loved one is being physically abused, you will likely see bruises, cuts, and bed sores. These injuries may be on the victim’s body, or they may find themself with unexplained injuries.
Victims of all types of nursing home abuse may become malnourished, as the abuser may be denying them food or taking their money for themselves. Similarly, victims of nursing home abuse may stop eating as a way to cope with the stress and trauma they are experiencing.
Financial Abuse
If you notice any unusual financial transactions happening in your loved one’s bank account, it may be a sign that they are being financially exploited. This could include large withdrawals or deposits that can’t be explained, or bills being paid for that the victim shouldn’t have enough money to cover.
Get Legal Help from a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
If you detect any of the signs of nursing home abuse listed above, it’s important to take action right away. The first step is to talk to your loved one about what is going on. If they can communicate, ask them if anyone has been hurting or neglecting them. If they are not able to communicate, try to look for any physical evidence of abuse.
It is important to seek legal help right away if you notice your loved one is being abused. A lawyer can help you get justice and compensation for the harm that has been done to you.
At Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC, we have experience helping victims of nursing home abuse get the justice they deserve. We offer free consultations to those suffering and in need of guidance or aid. Contact us today at 815-656-4600, or complete the following online contact form to get in touch.
