What Are The Five Types Of Abuse In A Nursing Home?
It’s scary to think of a parent or grandparent being abused in a nursing home. Unfortunately, it happens all too often, and in ways that are both heartbreaking and infuriating. Here are five types of nursing home abuse and neglect that an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer in Chicago, Illinois can assist you with:
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is the intentional infliction of harm on residents. Sometimes, it’s the result of staff members feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. In other instances, it may be a case of “rough handling” during transfers or personal care. Neither is justified.
Signs of nursing home physical abuse:
- Bruises, pressure marks, cuts, or welts
- Broken bones or any other internal injuries
- Sprains or dislocations
Emotional Abuse
Emotional (or psychological) abuse can be just as damaging as physical or sexual abuse. It can cause lifelong trauma, anxiety, and depression. It’s also the most common type of nursing home abuse, according to WHO.
Signs of emotional abuse:
- Exhibit withdrawn, depressed, or anxious behaviors
- Withdrawal from social activities, as well as hobbies
- Sudden outbursts of anger
Emotional Abuse
Emotional (or psychological) abuse can be just as damaging as physical or sexual abuse. It can cause lifelong trauma, anxiety, and depression. It’s also the most common type of nursing home abuse, according to WHO.
Signs of emotional abuse:
- Exhibit withdrawn, depressed, or anxious behaviors
- Withdrawal from social activities, as well as hobbies
- Sudden outbursts of anger
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse refers to the unauthorized use of a nursing home resident’s money or property. This can be anything from stealing cash to identity theft, or using a credit card without permission.
Signs of financial exploitation:
- Unusual activity on bank accounts or credit cards
- Missing money or belongings
- A sudden change in a will or power of attorney
Neglect
You’ll need a Chicago nursing home neglect lawyer if a nursing home facility displays negligence by failing to provide food, water, or medical care. Neglect can also mean failure on a caregiver’s part to lend a helping hand when needed, like bathing or dressing.
Telltale signs of neglect:
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Bedsores
- Untreated medical conditions
- Dirty or soiled clothing or bedding
- Unsanitary living conditions
Seek Justice With A Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Though the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act protects elderly residents from being abused or neglected in nursing home facilities, sometimes even after reporting maltreatment, investigations may last for months without any firm decision on liability.
If you believe someone you love is being abused or neglected by nursing home staff, it’s important to seek legal help immediately to file a lawsuit. Though audits may be done by Illinois’ Department of Public Health to document incidences of abuse in Chicago, an experienced Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer from The Law Offices of Joseph Younes P.C. will fight tooth and nail to get your loved one the restitution they deserve — whether it’s rightful reimbursement for medical bills or filing a personal injury lawsuit against a nursing home to get the compensation settlement that your loved one deserves.
Consult our firm today for a no-charge case evaluation today.