Nursing home abuse is a serious issue consisting of physically, mentally, and financially damaging behaviors by those who are tasked to help our elderly community.
Abuse and Negligence
Nursing home negligence or mistreatment of the elderly by caretakers is a serious and often under-reported issue. Negligence consists of abusive behavior by staff or caretakers and can lead to high levels of mistrust by the victim. The breach of trust can result in permanent physical or mental damage.
It can also include neglect which can lead to things such as wandering – which can lead to further injury – bed sores, rashes and any number of other equally damaging outcomes.
Negligence doesn’t have to always be physical or leave a visible mark. Verbal abuse or mistreatment by care workers or nursing home staff can have just as large of an effect as physical abuse. The emotional damage caused by verbal abuse can be difficult to quantify, but it is just as serious.
If your loved one has been neglected in a nursing home or by a caretaker, give us a call. We will go over the details and get you the legal help you deserve. At Galloway & Jensen, we specialize in personal injury which includes nursing home neglect. We are ready to listen.
Signs of Neglect
Nursing home negligence by caretakers is a serious and often under-reported issue. Unfortunately, many elderly abuse victims are unable to speak up for themselves. When caretakers are not held responsible, the lack of consequence often leads to systemic negligence.
If you visit a loved one in a nursing home and are concerned about their potential mistreatment, please pay attention to the following signs of abuse:
- Changes in personality, such as depression or timidness
- Appearance of bruises and abrasions
- Onset of weight loss
- Poor personal hygiene
- Torn or blood-stained clothing
