At Hance & Srinivasan, P.L.L.C., we think it is important for all persons who have family or loved ones residing in a nursing home facility to know how to look for the signs of neglect and abuse. Knowing these warning signs could help prevent the suffering or even the death of someone you love:
- Unexplained bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions or burns
- Sudden changes in behavior, personality or alertness
- Unusual depression, withdrawal from normal activities or changes in eating habits
- Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, dehydration, over-sedation or unusual weight loss (all signs of potential neglect)
- Unsanitary and unclean living conditions (e.g., dirt, fleas, lice on person, soiled bedding, fecal/urine smell, inadequate clothing, etc.)
- Staff using belittling remarks or threats
- Frequent arguments or a tense, strained relationship between the caregiver and the resident
- Hazardous or unsafe living condition/arrangements (e.g., improper wiring, no heat, no running water, unstable walkways or guardrails, etc.)
- Laboratory findings of medication overdose or underutilization of prescribed drugs
If you or your loved one is experiencing any one or combination of these signs, contact Hance & Srinivasan immediately for a private, no-cost consultation.
