As our parents and other loved ones enter their golden years, many of us are faced with the uncertain decision of placing them in a long-term care facility or nursing home. But it’s a scary thing having to rely and trust total strangers with their health and well-being. You need to know that the nursing home staff has the residents’ best interests at heart and are trained to handle their physical and mental health needs.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, as a result of being overworked, angry or unqualified, nursing home staff can be negligent in their duties. This can create serious health problems and even put lives at risk. Explore some important signs of nursing home neglect and learn how a personal injury attorney can help you get compensation for the injuries suffered.
Physical Injuries
The first thing to look for are signs of physical injuries. If your loved one suffers from unexplained cuts and bruises, sprains, broken bones, bedsores or other injuries, it could well be a sign that they’re suffering abuse or neglect at the hands of nursing home staff. In such cases, immediately remove them from the situation and report the incident to nursing home management as well as the authorities for investigation.
Mental Health Symptoms
If your loved one undergoes sudden or unusual changes in personality, it could be a bad sign. Sudden mood swings, aggression, fear, depression or other issues that cannot be attributed to another condition such as Alzheimer’s can be an indication that there’s something else going on.
Likewise, if they become withdrawn and show resistance to interacting with others, if they attempt to escape the residence, or if they exhibit a sudden lack of personal hygiene, these can all be symptoms of neglect or abuse. While there may be a difficult period of adjustment initially, their time in a nursing home should keep them healthy and happy, not fearful and depressed.
Lack of Medication and Nutrition
If they exhibit sudden weight loss, signs of malnutrition, or it becomes clear that their medication is not on schedule, it could be due to neglect. Keep a close eye on your loved ones to ensure they’re getting enough to eat, balanced nutrition and that their medication schedule is being maintained.
Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you believe that your loved one is the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, there are a number of things you should do. First, remove them from the situation right away. Their health and safety is paramount. Next, contact the proper authorities: the police or the local chapter of the AARP.
Finally, speak to a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney for help. You may be entitled to significant compensation for the damages suffered. These include medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional trauma and more. If you’re in such a situation with your loved one in the Las Vegas area, call Eglet Prince for a consult on your case today.
