Signs Of Nursing Home Abuse
Indicators of elder abuse. There are a number of different warning signs of nursing home concerns that a resident is not receiving adequate health care. In many cases, these warning signs will go unnoticed until it is too late. In other cases, these warning signs are simply brushed off by family members and friends. And, in even more cases, these warning signs are hidden behind closed doors. Whatever the case, it is important to be on the lookout for any signs of nursing home abuse or neglect. Nursing homes are supposed to be a place of support and security; however, this is not always the case. If you notice any warning signs that a nursing home is not up to standard, then it is important to contact a elderly abuse attorney immediately.
Physical Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Physical signs can often be a great indicator of abuse. If your loved one is showing any of these symptoms, it could be a sign of neglect or abuse:
• Bed sores/ pressure sores
• Torn clothing or personal items
• Constant falls and traumas
• Excessive weight loss or weight gain
• Fecal/urine smells
• Pale complexion
• Lack of personal hygiene
• Presence of dirt, lice, fleas, etc.
• A change in personality
Keep in mind that abuse can also occur without any shred of physical symptoms. It is also important to remember that emotional abuse be just as common and devastating to the nursing home victim.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse, Neglect or Inadequate Care
There are a number of cases where the neglect or abuse is not as easy to recognize as the physical signs. One of the best ways to understand if a nursing home is providing adequate care is to understand the Minnesota Nursing Home Resident Bill of Rights. Some of the signs that neglect or abuse is taking place may include:
• Lack of staff members and lack of service provided
• Rudeness of staff members
• Lack of entertainment facilities
• Lack of patient morale
• Lack of proper diet, nutrition and lifestyle facilities
• Lack of proper heating or cooling
• Lack of proper hygienic cleaning
Signs of nursing home neglect are not always obvious. If possible attend the resident’s care plan meetings and assure that the treatment ordered by the physician in the resident’s care plan is up to date and performed on a timely and professional basis. If concerned file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Health concerning alleged abuse, neglect or finanicial exploitation.
Realizing that your loved one may be in danger and may not be receiving the utmost quality of care can make you feel anger, helpless and confused. You most likely will not know what to do or who to turn to for help with this injustice. This is why it is so important to contact a qualified elder home abuse lawyer to help assess the situation and work on the case.
Contact and Experienced Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from neglect or abuse in a nursing home or other care facility that serves the elderly in Minnesota please contact our firm for a free consultation and information regarding the obligations of the facility and your rights as a resident or concerned family member. To contact Attorney Kenneth L. LaBore, directly please send an email to KLaBore@mnnursinghomeneglect.com or call Ken at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589.
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