Understanding the Threat of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

by | Apr 23, 2018 | Law

As aging loved ones are moved to senior homes to receive professional monitoring and care, family members assume the elder will be given quality treatment. However, many family members discover to their dismay that a relative has been mistreated at a nursing home, leading to suffering, injury, or even death. To become more aware of potential elder nursing home abuse in Joliet, look for the following signs that may indicate your loved one is being mistreated.

Weight loss.

If a nursing home resident appears to be losing weight unexpectedly, consult the doctor. If there are no medical reasons for the dropped pounds, the next step is to ensure the elder is getting enough food, as well as eating assistance if needed.

Dehydration.

Dry skin, parched mouth, and excessive thirst may suggest a medical condition. However, it also might be due to the resident not getting enough water to drink. Check with the nursing staff to see if residents have access to a drinking fountain or other water sources and if they receive fluids with each meal.

Improperly dressed.

Nursing home abuse in Joliet is sometimes revealed when facility residents often appear in clothing stained with urine, feces, or food, or if their clothing smells or appears unclean. If they are missing articles of clothing, such as socks or underwear, that may be another symptom of neglect.

Unexplained injuries and bruises.

Seniors with bruises, scrapes, or other injuries, or symptoms of psychological or emotional abuse should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out possible nursing staff neglect or abuse.

No one wants to think a loved one is receiving poor nursing home care. But possible symptoms should be quickly assessed. For more information about nursing home abuse, contact Block, Klukas, Manzella & Shell, P.C. or visit their website at http://www.blocklaw.com.