After visiting your elderly loved one, you may return with some worries and questions about the state of their nursing home.
When you begin to suspect abuse and neglect, knowing the signs can help you to understand how dangerous this situation is.
Dirty clothes and room
According to the National Institute on Aging, if you notice your loved one walking around in unwashed or stained clothing, it could be because the staff does not properly care for them. This neglect can happen when their hair or nails are dirty as well.
Staff members may attempt to harm older residents by withholding help or ignoring their needs.
Bad communication and negative reactions
If you find it hard to talk to your loved one alone, the staff may be to blame. Since many elderly people need help to interact and socialize with others, abusive staff members may try to isolate them.
You may notice your loved one reacts in a nervous way whenever a staff member talks to them. They could also seem anxious to ask for assistance or medicine. You could see your loved one show signs of anger and frustration with no obvious explanation.
Physical danger or discomfort
Strange bruises and cuts along the legs or arms of your loved one could indicate that abuse is happening. You may notice your loved one has broken walkers or glasses but refuses to tell you how they became broken.
An emotional reaction to an honest question may show that your loved one feels intimidated and uncomfortable with the staff. Staying aware of how nursing home abuse happens can help you.