Elders in nursing homes are some of the most vulnerable in the United States. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately five million people face elder abuse annually. If your elderly loved ones have been victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, you should talk to a lawyer immediately. Read more about how a lawyer would be able to help you.
What is elder abuse in nursing homes?
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC), any intentional act that causes harm or serious risk to an elderly person can be elder abuse. Elder abuse comes in many forms, which can all happen in nursing homes. Some types of elder abuse in nursing homes can be:
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Physical abuse
Physical abuse is violence against a senior to inflict pain or injury, including physically or chemically restraining an elderly individual with medication or drugs.
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Psychological abuse or emotional abuse
Psychological or emotional abuse can range from ignoring the elderly person to intimidating or threatening them. Abuse also includes causing emotional grief or suffering to an elderly person through how they are treated or talked to.
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Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse includes sexual activity that the elderly person did not consent to.
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Exploitation or financial abuse
This also includes the unlawful taking, misuse, or concealing of an elderly person’s funds, property, or assets.
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Healthcare fraud or abuse
Generally carried out by unethical doctors or nurses.
What is neglect in nursing homes?
Neglect can either be unintentional or intentional. This is different from abuse, as abuse is always intentional. When the caretaking obligations to the elderly person are not fulfilled, it is called neglect. Some types of neglect are:
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Medival neglect
This can include the failure to prevent or address medical conditions.
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Basic needs neglect
This is the failure to provide for the basic needs of the elderly person, such as sufficient food, a clean environment, etc.
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Personal hygiene neglect
Failure to provide the required assistance with personal hygiene.
Is your elderly loved one a victim of abuse?
Elder abuse and neglect are a huge problem in the United States, and people in nursing homes are especially susceptible to it. If your elderly loved one has been a victim of abuse and neglect in their nursing home, you should not stay silent. Schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney and help your elderly loved ones protect their rights.
