As family members whose loved ones live in nursing homes, we expect facility staff and administrators to provide safe and responsible care. However, abuse and neglect are more common than most realize. Understanding the red flags of nursing home abuse could be essential in protecting your loved ones from harm.
By recognizing the red flags, families can take action to protect their loved ones. If you suspect abuse, do not hesitate to call a Silver Spring nursing home abuse lawyer. They usually provide free consultations. If they believe abuse is possible, they can protect your loved one’s rights and fight for the justice they deserve.
What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Signs of nursing home abuse could be physical, emotional, or behavioral. It is important to remain aware of these signs during each visit. They could include:
Physical Signs of Abuse
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
- Unexplained fractures or repeated injuries
- Signs of unnecessary restraint, such as marks on wrists or ankles
- Rapid weight loss or other signs of malnutrition
- Dehydration
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
- Sudden mood swings, anxiety, or depression
- Fearfulness or anxiety around certain staff members or other residents
- Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies
- Suddenly becoming quiet or withdrawn from family
- Unexplained, unusual agitation or violent outbursts
Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
- Unsanitary living conditions, such as soiled bedding or unchanged clothing
- Poor personal hygiene, including unkempt hair or untreated bed sores
- Missing necessary medical equipment or prescriptions
- Residents unsupervised in unsafe areas
Red Flags for Sexual Abuse
- Bruising or bleeding around the genital area
- Unexplained infections or sexually transmitted diseases
- Withdrawal or fear of being touched
For a free legal consultation, call,
(888) 585-2188
Understanding How Abuse in Nursing Homes Occurs
Elder abuse in a care facility includes both intentional harm and neglect. It leads to physical injury or emotional distress for residents. Some ways abuse can occur include:
- Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical bodily harm through hitting, pushing, or restraining
- Emotional Abuse: Causing emotional distress and fear through verbal assaults, threats, or isolating residents from others
- Neglect: Failing to provide adequate food, hydration, medical care, and other human needs, including hygiene; the only type of abuse that can occur unintentionally
- Sexual Abuse: Any inappropriate sexual contact or exploitation, especially in a situation where the victim cannot give consent, such as the case with many nursing home residents
Each State Has Laws to Protect Nursing Home Residents
Both the federal government and each state set laws designed to ensure the safety and dignity of nursing home residents. For example, in Maryland, facilities must comply with the Resident’s Bill of Rights, which—among other protections—includes:
- Right to Dignity: Residents have the right to be treated with respect and free from abuse or neglect.
- Right to Safety: Nursing facilities must provide safe environments and appropriate medical care.
- Right to Advocacy: Residents may file complaints without fear of retaliation.
While each state handles complaints according to its own rules, Maryland’s Department of Health (MDH) oversees nursing home regulations in Maryland. They ensure compliance through inspections and investigations of reported abuse or neglect.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
What Should I Do If I Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?
If you suspect nursing home abuse while visiting your loved one, take the following steps:
- Document Everything: Take notes about what you witness, including dates, times, and specific incidents. Photographs of injuries or negligent living conditions could be valuable later.
- Speak with Management: Address your concerns with the facility’s administrators. In some cases, issues arise from mismanagement or staffing issues, which they may address when they are made aware of them.
- Report the Abuse: Contact the proper authorities. In Maryland, the Department of Aging points families toward the Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ) to report suspected abuse. This agency can investigate and take action if necessary.
- Ensure the Safety of Your Loved One: If you believe your loved one is in immediate danger, dial 911 and/or remove them from the facility.
When to Contact an Attorney About Nursing Home Abuse
You may want to work with a nursing home abuse attorney to protect your loved one’s rights and advocate for their best interests. A lawyer can build a case to hold the responsible parties accountable. Consider contacting a personal injury lawyer who handles nursing home abuse cases if:
- Severe or Repeated Abuse: If your loved one suffered significant physical harm or you believe the facility has a history of neglecting residents
- Inadequate Response: If the elder care facility fails to address the issues after you meet with them or you believe they are retaliating against your loved one
- Compensation for Expenses and Losses: If your loved one suffered physical or emotional harm that required them to pay additional expenses or suffer financial losses due to abuse or neglect
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
How a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Can Help You Get Justice
A Maryland nursing home abuse attorney can play a critical role in helping you get justice for your loved one. They will take the necessary steps to build a case and hold the owner or administrator responsible. This includes:
- Investigating the Abuse: Attorneys gather evidence, interview eyewitnesses, and obtain medical records to develop a robust case showing abuse or neglect.
- Navigating the Law: Your attorney will follow all legal procedures and build a case that complies with any necessary laws and statutes. They understand the process and navigate it for you.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, your attorney will file a lawsuit against the facility or other liable parties. They will seek financial compensation for medical care costs, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Providing Peace of Mind: Dealing with nursing home abuse and trying to protect your loved one is stressful and overwhelming. An attorney will handle the legal aspects of the case, allowing you to focus on your loved one’s recovery and well-being.
Talk to Our Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys About Your Loved One’s Case Today
Jenner Law provides free consultations for families who suspect nursing home abuse. Our nursing home abuse lawyer can help you protect their well-being and build a case to hold the liable parties accountable.
Contact our team today for your free, confidential consultation with our legal team.
Call or text (888) 585-2188 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form