Recognizing Signs of Abuse and Neglect in Nursing Homes
Nursing home abuse and neglect is a very common problem. If you spot any signs of abuse on your loved one, you may want to take immediate action, including contacting a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer.
Unfortunately, as many Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers are aware, the signs of abuse can sometimes be hard to identify. As a result, nursing home abuse and neglect are often underreported.
To help you identify harmful acts against the people you care about, here are the top ten signs of nursing home abuse and neglect:
- Unexplained Injuries. It may be natural to suffer a few bumps and bruises. But if your loved one has many unexplained injuries, this may be a red flag.
- Broken Bones. Serious injuries such as broken bones, sprains, and fractures warrant further investigation.
- Overmedication. If your loved one is on too much medication, this may be a sign that nursing home staff is trying to hide something.
- Bedsores. This is a common symptom of neglect, as nursing home staff may not be putting in the time and effort to oversee your loved one.
- Weight Loss/Malnutrition. Another common sign of neglect is if your loved one has lost a significant amount of weight.
- Unsanitary Conditions. You should look for unsanitary conditions at the nursing home facilities, as well as the physical condition and cleanliness of the patient.
- Changes in Personality. Sudden changes in personality may be cause for concern.
- Withdrawn and Unsocial Behavior. If your loved one used to be gregarious, but suddenly becomes withdrawn, this may be a sign of abuse or neglect.
- Significant Withdrawals From Bank Accounts. Changes in banking practices and large withdrawals can signal fraud.
- Changes in Wills and Estate Planning. This is another common sign of undue influence or fraud.
Contact a Tampa Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Contact Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer Peter Giroux at (727) 895-5399 if you believe your loved one has fallen victim to nursing home abuse or neglect.