When it is time to move your loved one into a nursing home facility, it can be a difficult decision but one you make with the assumption that they will be well taken care of. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Did you know that over 40% of individuals residing in nursing home facilities have reported abuse, and over 90% have reported being neglected? These are startling numbers and should not be taken lightly.
It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect. It’s even more vital to be able to identify the signs right away and call a qualified lawyer to help with your case. For those unable to care for themselves, it is important for us to be proactive in looking out for our loved one’s well-being.
Listen & Trusted Your Loved One
It’s important to stay in close contact with your loved one while they are in the care of others. Listen to what they are telling you and trust them when they speak up about being mistreated. Ask them questions and listen to the way they describe the situation.
Look Out For Signs Of Physical Abuse
However, sometimes your loved one may not be capable of speaking to you about the mistreatment they are experiencing. In these cases, it is vital that you visit with your family member or friend so that you can keep an eye out for any signs of physical abuse. If you notice any bruises or other injuries, speak directly to your loved one and ask them where it came from. It’s important to note that an abusive caretaker will try and cover up the situation. That’s why we recommend speaking directly to the one experiencing the abuse. Please also note that abuse isn’t always visible. Sometimes caretakers will administer medications improperly and that is also something that you will want to look after.
Look Out For Signs Of Neglect
Along with that, neglect is another form of abuse that isn’t as noticeable. If a caretaker is neglecting their responsibilities, it can potentially be harmful to your loved one if they are not getting the care or medication they need on time. Sometimes caretakers aren’t intentionally trying to neglect the individuals they are caring for, but their irresponsibility causes those individuals to suffer; both physically and emotionally. If you notice signs of neglect, or if your loved one has spoken up about it, it is time to hire a nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer.
Contact Sticklen Dreyer Tinney
The attorneys at Sticklen Dreyer Tinney have investigated, reviewed, and tried abuse and neglect cases against nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. We stand up for people who have been victims of abuse or neglect, who many times cannot speak up for themselves. If you suspect that a nursing home, long term care facility, or hospital mistreated your loved one, call us at (888) 959-5445 and schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal rights.