When your elderly loved one moves into a nursing home, you expect that he or she will receive the best care possible. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse has become a regular occurrence in the past few years.
The Illinois Department of Public Health reports that there are 1,200 long-term care facilities in the state, with over 100,000 Illinois seniors residing in them. Because so many people live in nursing homes, it is important to understand what signs of elder abuse you should look for if your family member is a resident.
Withdrawal From Normal Activities
If your elderly parent or loved one suddenly withdraws from the activities that he or she normally enjoys, it could be a sign that he or she feels depressed or stressed. Emotional abuse at the hand of a caretaker can cause this sign, and your loved one may not feel like he or she can ask for help.
Dehydration or Malnutrition
Those experiencing nursing home abuse may become dehydrated or malnourished due to lack of care or withholding of food and water.
Frequent Injuries
Bruising, fractures, burns, bedsores, or other unexplained or frequent injuries could be a sign that there is physical abuse taking place at your loved one’s nursing home.
Lack of Personal Hygiene
Some elderly people find it difficult to perform daily hygiene tasks, but if you being to notice a disheveled appearance that you had not before, you may want to start asking questions.
Nursing home abuse is an unfortunate trend, and it is essential that you remain aware of the signs of this abuse that your elderly parents may show.