When our parents reach the twilight of their lives, careers and the stresses of life do not allow us to provide them with the care they deserve. As a result, there are over one million nursing home beds in the United States. Unfortunately, many workers in these institutions are overworked, under trained and poorly paid, resulting in a shattering of the trust we placed in them to care for those who raised us.
Nursing home abuse is when an employee of a nursing home is negligent and/or abusive to one of its patients and mental, emotional and/or physical harm is inflicted. Many cases of nursing home abuse aren’t reported as its victims are embarrassed and warning signs are subtle. Commonly, nursing home neglect can take the form of medical malpractice in which your loved one receives inappropriate treatment or medication.
Here are telltale signs to look out for if you believe your loved one is or has been a victim of nursing home abuse:
- Bruises, broken bones, burns and/or skin abrasions
- Unexplained depression that onsets seemingly overnight
- Disengagement from the community and/or activities that typically bring them joy
- Abrupt change in finances
- Bruises or marks around the genitals
- Poor hygiene
- Unexplained and significant weight loss and/or a change in appetite
- Bedsores
- Dehydration
- Paranoia
- Drastic mood swings
Neglect and abuse of your loved ones is a difficult pill to swallow. Emotions of rage, guilt, and anger are common—however, acting on your own rarely punishes those responsible or gets compensation for you and your relative. Immediately contact an experienced nursing home negligence attorney if you wish to see results.
If believe that your loved one is currently or has been a victim of nursing home abuse in Atlanta, please contact Robbins & Associates today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.