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Nursing Home Abuse

Updated: Dec 15, 2022

This month we are going to share an article that is provided by Nursing Home Abuse.Org

It is an honor our blog get notice by health professionals and different organizations, we are permitted to post this link by Jessica -Outreach Director from Nursing Home Abuse.Org.

Here is the external link for this article , it is a very detailed and informative read

I'm going to give a brief info on this article.


Nursing home abuse is common in the United States. Older adults get hurt, are neglected, and even die in the same facilities where they should be receiving proper care.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) found that nursing home abuse:

  • Increases the chances of death by 300%

  • Triples the chances of hospitalization

  • Leads to future medical problems and disabilities

  • Increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues


Nursing home abuse can be physical, mental, emotional, and sexual. The NCOA states that nursing home abuse includes:

  • Physical abuse, which can be made apparent by bruises or unexplained falls

  • Sexual abuse, including any sexual activity without consent

  • Neglect, indicated by matted hair, dirty bedding, and so on

  • Emotional abuse, such as verbal threats and harassment

  • Financial exploitation, such as forged financial documents or missing personal belongings


Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

  • Physical abuse - broken bones, unexplained injuries, refusal of visitors, improper medication and treatment

  • Emotional abuse - increased nightmares, panic attacks, fear of the caregiver, withdrawal from social interactions

  • Neglect - poor hygiene, dehydration, lack or loss of mobility, malnutrition and weight loss

  • Sexual abuse - unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding, bruises around the inner thigh, breasts, or genital areas

  • Financial exploitation - missing items, sudden changes in financial situation, significant fund withdrawals


How can you prevent nursing home abuse?


Nursing home abuse prevention is complex. It requires the involvement of different parties, including residents, nursing staff, and the government. There are many ways to proactively prevent abuse, including the following:


Individuals

  • Understand the different forms of abuse that can occur in a care facility

  • Learn nursing home policies, services, and prohibitions

  • Express concerns about abuse to staff members, administrators, social workers, doctors, and nursing directors

  • Inform a loved one that you believe abuse is taking place

  • Document evidence

  • Reach out to state survey agencies or a long-term care ombudsman

Friends and Relatives

  • Review different care facilities and choose a reputable one

  • Visit long-term care facilities to ascertain their conditions

  • Visit and check in on your loved one often

  • Take any complaints from your loved one seriously

  • Notify relevant authorities about any abuse


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