Watching a grandparent, parent or other family member grow old is not easy. It is trying both mentally and emotionally. This person is your family, whom you love. You therefore take safety precautions as his or her mental and physical health decline. One of these precautions may include choosing an appropriate nursing home or assisted living facility for your loved one.
You may have done all of your research and homework before selecting the right place for your aging family member. Yet, unfortunately nursing home abuse and neglect can occur at even the most reputable facilities. For that reason, you need to be on guard to ensure your loved one is receiving the utmost care and is not the victim of abuse.
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect
Nursing home abuse can manifest itself in many different forms. Below are some red flags you need to watch out for that could indicate abuse:
Unexplained injuries, such as cuts, bruises and welts
Unauthorized use of physical or chemical restraints
Rope marks or bruises on the wrists
Too much or too little medication given
Isolation
Changes in personality
Resident mentions abuse
Torn or stained underclothing
Nursing home neglect can be just as dangerous. Some of the warning signs include:
Both of these lists are merely samples of the many red flags of nursing home abuse and neglect. There may be other signs that your loved one is at risk or your instincts might simply be telling you that something isn’t right. Either way, you need to ensure your loved one is safe.
Take Action if Your Family Member Has Suffered
If you do discover that your loved one suffered abuse or neglect at a Virginia nursing home or assisted living facility, there are some actions you need to take. You should speak with an experienced Virginia nursing home abuse attorney for information on what you should do.