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Over one million Americans are living in nursing homes, expecting care that meets their basic needs and preserves their human dignity. However, that’s not always the case. Some residents may be victims of nursing home neglect and abuse.
Nursing home abuse and neglect occur when the care – or lack thereof – your loved one receives causes harm. If you suspect your loved one has been neglected or abused in a nursing home, you must report it. Here are six common types to look out for.
How to Report Nursing Home Neglect
The best way to stop nursing home neglect and abuse from happening is to report it. You can do so in several different ways.
- Contact the nursing home directly. Many opt out of this option as they fear retaliation from the nursing home staff.
- Reach out to your state Department of Health. They help govern the nursing home from a state level.
- Contact Medicare directly to file a complaint. They will investigate complaints and put nursing homes on action plans to help address issues. If they are not resolved, the nursing home can lose funding.
Nursing homes can also be sued for negligence like Prestige Care was for violating patient rights. In 2023, they were sued for negligence, abandonment, and medical malpractice. These conditions contributed to the patient’s death.
Nursing homes must be held accountable for these issues before the worst happens, so it’s critical to file a complaint for suspected abuse and neglect.
Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse and neglect may present differently from patient to patient, but there are common themes throughout all forms.
1. Physical Injuries
Physical injuries are often visible signs of abuse and neglect. They can include bruises, cuts, bite marks, and burns. Patients may also break bones from falling or being handled too roughly. Accidents happen, but if they happen continually or under suspicious circumstances, the injury may be cause for concern.
2. Bedsores
Bedsores, or pressure ulcers, are pressure wounds that occur on bony body parts. The pressure or friction from bedsheets, clothing, chairs, and other surfaces can cause the skin to break down over time. This type of injury occurs if a person is left in one position unattended for too long, which is often a sign of neglect.
3. Unsanitary Conditions
Nursing home residents may have limited mobility and rely on the staff to care for their basic needs. Symptoms of nursing home abuse due to unsanitary conditions include if the individual is dirty, unwashed, or sitting in excrement. Their linens should be unsoiled, and their clothing and undergarments should be clean and changed frequently. They should be bathed regularly and not smell like urine, feces, or body odor.
4. Malnutrition
During the transition period, your loved one may lose weight as they get more comfortable in their surroundings. However, once they are adjusted, they should not continue to experience weight loss. If you notice your loved one is wasting away, their nutritional needs may not be met. Dehydration, weakness, dry mouth, and cracked lips can also be indications of neglect.
5. Changes in Behavior
Significant changes in behavior can be a sign of nursing home abuse and neglect. You may notice your loved one being anxious or depressed. Maybe they are becoming more withdrawn and isolated. They stop finding enjoyment in things they used to love, and they seem afraid, especially around specific nursing home staff.
Ask your loved one why they behave like this, and be patient as they try to unpack why. Admitting this can be challenging for those who used to be independent. It may take some time to understand the extent of the issues.
6. Unattended
If the nursing facility is Medicare-certified, each resident must receive at least 3.48 hours of care daily. This includes 0.55 from a registered nurse, 2.45 from nurses’ aids, and 0.48 from additional staff members. However, that’s not always the case. Many patients are left unattended for long periods. When they press the call light, it may take several hours for staff to respond, which can have severe health consequences.
Conclusion
The National Council on Aging suspects that more than 5 million adults are the victims of elder abuse, and that includes those in nursing homes. Nursing homes must be held accountable for these behaviors, which can have life-threatening consequences.
Abuse and neglect can take different forms, but if you suspect your loved one is a victim, take steps to ensure their safety and report the nursing home. Officials will investigate the claims and potentially save lives as a result. Nursing home abuse is unacceptable, and you can play a role in eradicating these behaviors.
