Neglected Loved Ones In Nursing Homes

It is a sad reflection of the state of humanity when one reads about nursing home abuse and other forms of elder abuse that are happening in this nation and around the world. For most people, the idea of abusing senior citizens in any way is appalling, to say the least. However, it does happen and the best thing that can be done is to be aware of it, know the signs and then know what to do when it is recognized.

Signs of Neglect: Neglect may sound like an inadvertent, benign form of nursing home abuse, however it is even more dangerous. Unlike out and out physical abuse, neglect can take weeks, months or years to leave its mark and when it is finally recognized, it can sometimes be too late. Here are some signs to be aware with regard to neglect:

- Hygiene - Seniors should have proper personal care and cleaning, appropriate clothing and an adequate amount of nutritional food.

- Supervision - Nursing homes must provide effective supervision of patients, particularly in cases of dementia or other related illnesses.

- Medical - Patients must have access to all required aids, medication, teeth/partials, walkers, glasses and not be simply confined to beds.

- Safety - Cleanliness also applies to the patient's room or home, which must also not be in disrepair and contain safety, fire or clutter-based hazards.

Signs of Abuse: When abuse is recognized in senior patients it is particularly troubling. Family members, nursing staff and others who work with these patients on a daily basis need to be aware of these signs to ensure the safety of the patient. Here are some signs of psychological, emotional, physical and sexual abuse to be aware of:

- Behavior - Changes in involvement with day-to-day activities, withdrawal from social situations, altered mood, level of alertness, etc.

- Physical Evidence - Bruises, sores, cuts, burns, welts or bone fractures that are unexplained or seem suspicious even after explanation.

- Sexual Evidence - Patient is diagnosed with sexually transmitted diseases that cannot be explained.

What You Can Do: If you suspect that a patient or family member is being abused or neglected in some way, your best course of action is to seek legal counsel. A professional can help determine whether there is a case and can guide you through the required steps to protect the patient from their abuser. Stick up for your loved ones and get the care they deserve. Don't leave them to fend for themselves.