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Signs of nursing home negligence that you might miss

On Behalf of | Feb 9, 2022 | Injuries

Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and board and care homes are residential facilities for elders throughout New Jersey. Some patients are ambulatory, and others require round-the-clock care. These elderly citizens are vulnerable to abuse because their voices are often ignored. Knowing what signs to look for can help save the lives of people you know and love.

Hidden signs of nursing home neglect

An obvious sign of elder neglect is bruising. If a resident is sensitive to touch or rubbing a particular area, that could be signs of personal injury such as a skin tear. Looking at your loved one’s skin, scalp and body will help you discover hidden injuries. Speaking to the health care providers about any unusual marks, discolorations or bruising can get these things treated immediately and let the facility know that you are aware of the care your elder is receiving.

Other signs of nursing home neglect

It’s hard to believe that vulnerable elders are at risk for sexual, verbal, physical and emotional abuse, but it is true. Personal injury in elder care facilities is often overlooked, and the person affected the most is the one without a voice.

Mental or emotional abuse should not be ignored. Elders with dementia-related illnesses need their families to be vigilant concerning their care. Here are more signs of elder abuse:

  • Your loved one appears overly medicated, tired all the time or unusually quiet and inactive.
  • Your loved one is jumpy, nervous or constantly looking around.
  • Your loved one reacts suddenly when a caretaker enters the room.
  • Your loved one won’t make eye contact.
  • Your loved one seems highly agitated, irritable and aggressive.

Elders with dementia-related illnesses need their families to be attentive. It’s difficult for families to accept that their loved ones could be victims of nursing home abuse, but if your loved one seems unhappy, this could be a sign of neglect.