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Types Of Nursing Home And Elder Abuse

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Nursing home and elder abuse occurs when someone who has been placed in a position of trust for the care and well-being of an elderly person, or a person residing in a nursing home, violates that trust. Nursing home and elder abuse may take many forms, but there are several which are common, and which are detailed herein.

Physical Abuse: This is arguably the most common form of abuse and is the type that is reported most often. Physical abuse refers to any kind of physical force that causes injury, pain, or distress. A disgruntled worker, for example, might decide to slap an elderly person who is refusing to take his or her medication. Even if you do not witness the abuse taking place, there are often physical signs of abuse. Physical warning signs include broken bones, untreated infections, bruises, and cuts. All observations of abuse, including physical evidence of assault, should be documented and reported.

Emotional: Emotional abuse occurs when behaviors of the abuser interfere with the psychological well-being of the victim. Elders suffering from emotional abuse may be frequently placed in isolation, experience verbal assaults, or neglected. In the case of negligence, physical signs such as ulcers, malnutrition, bedsores, and untreated infections can develop. More often than not, the most obvious signs of emotional abuse are changes in the behavior of the elder. He or she might make verbal complaints of distress or may appear fearful. Emotional outbursts are not uncommon.

Verbal: Verbal abuse is closely linked with emotional abuse because of its tendency to have negative psychological consequences and long-term ramifications. Over time, verbal abuse can escalate to physical abuse because it often goes undetected. Name-calling, harassing, yelling, and threatening an individual are all common examples of verbally abusive behaviors. Although reported less often, these types of behaviors are inexcusable, and abusers must be held accountable.

Sexual: This type of abuse includes any form of sexual harassment or inappropriate sexual conduct. Sexual abuse is linked to all other forms of abuse because of the physical warning signs that develop and the emotional stress caused.

Legalities

If you suspect any staff member of inappropriate conduct, which includes any combination of the behaviors described above, it is your legal right and responsibility to advocate for your loved one. Your primary responsibility is to document any and all instances of abuse. Photographing evidence of physical abuse and neglect can ensure that your claims go to trial. Next, contact a lawyer who has experience with elder abuse and neglect cases. Your attorney can assess the evidence, gather additional information, and file complaints needed for a formal investigation to occur. He or she can then locate the most suitable professionals to conduct these searches. Once suspicions are confirmed, individuals associated can be charged, and the matter is brought before a court. Going through litigation processes is demanding, and no one should have to tackle these obstacles alone, especially during such a trying time. Therefore, it is beneficial to contact an attorney who is qualified to walk you through the ordeal. An attorney has the best resources for locating organizations, efficiently filing paperwork, and conducting an investigation. Moreover, he or she takes on the responsibilities that would otherwise be placed on your shoulders. The more professional help you seek, the higher the chances of an outcome in your favor.