4 Red Flags of Nursing Home Neglect
Our elderly loved ones are important members of our family. Making the decision to place them in a nursing home is never easy, but often there comes a time when they can no longer live on their own and we do not have the resources to care for them in our own homes.
Fortunately, most nursing homes do have compassionate and loving teams to provide our seniors with the care they need, but it is unfortunate that nursing home abuse is a reality at facilities across the country, with neglect being among the most serious issues senior individuals face as a resident of a nursing home.
All too often, seniors do not have the ability to express themselves when dealing with issues of neglect, especially those with memory issues or diagnoses of dementia. This is why it is vital for any individual with a loved one in a nursing home to know the biggest red flags of nursing home neglect so they can contact a NY bedsore lawyer in Suffolk County or surrounding areas to get the help they need.
Issues With Personal Hygiene
As we grow older, we may not have the ability to take care of ourselves as we once did. Many older individuals have mobility issues that can leave them unable to bathe themselves, brush their hair, clip their nails, or attend to other basic tasks related to their hygiene. Meanwhile, even those who have more mobility may not have the mental capacity to remember to attend to these needs. It is up to their caregivers to not only help them attend to their hygiene needs but also help them remember when certain tasks must be completed.
As you visit your loved ones, pay attention to their hygiene. Even seemingly small issues such as dirty clothing, unclipped nails, or tangled hair can be a sign of a bigger problem and can signal that it is time to contact a bedsore attorney in Nassau County or surrounding areas.
Declining Mobility
It is expected that as your elderly loved one ages, their mobility will decrease. However, remember that a good nursing home staff will do everything they can to ensure your senior loved one is able to retain their mobility for as long as possible. They will do this by providing them with ample opportunities to get up and move around, which will help them retain their muscle tone and improve their circulation.
If you notice your loved one’s mobility is declining much faster than expected after placing them in a nursing home, this could indicate they are being left in bed for long periods of time, an issue that could potentially lead to other health issues such as infections or bedsores. If you do notice bedsores, be certain you contact a bedsore lawyer immediately to get help for your loved one.
New or Worsening Psychological Issues
Psychological issues are common among the elderly, even if they are not commonly acknowledged. Depression and anxiety are especially prevalent. Elderly individuals who have been forced to leave their homes, who have lost friends and loved ones, and who are now living in a new environment are subject to a lot of stress. Among the most important jobs of caretakers in nursing homes is knowing how to identify these issues as they arise. Unfortunately, a neglectful staff may lead elderly individuals to become angry, resentful, and even more depressed or anxious. Be certain you speak often with your loved ones and ask how they are feeling. Pay attention to their emotional state and remember that emotional changes should be taken seriously.
Unexplained Injuries and Physical Issues
It is vital to take note of any injuries and other physical issues you may note when you see your loved one, especially if you are not given any clear explanation for how these injuries or issues occurred. For example, if you see bruises or scrapes on your loved one’s body but are not given a clear answer for how they occurred, this may be a clear sign that they are either being abused or neglected. Likewise, if you notice physical issues such as weight loss not caused by a medical problem, this could be a sign your loved one is not being fed properly. It is always wise to watch for problems such as bedsores that indicate your loved one is being left unattended and to contact a NY bedsore lawyer in Suffolk County or a location near you as needed to get the help you and your loved one needs.
If you find yourself in need of a bedsore attorney in Nassau County or a bedsore lawyer in other areas around New York to help you with nursing home neglect, be sure to contact our team at Sinel & Oleson, PLLC to get the help you and your senior loved one need.