Nursing Home Abuse
Placing an elderly family member in a nursing home or assisted living facility is a difficult and heart wrenching experience. That experience can turn into heartbreak when the family member is not properly cared for or treated with respect and dignity. It is an unfortunate fact that neglect and abuse of the elderly is a huge problem in the United States. In response, many states such as Florida and Illinois have enacted statutes which are designed to protect the elderly from abuse and neglect and which provide them with a cause of action against nursing home facilities.
Common Warning Signs
It is important for family members to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect which can include:
- Unusual or unexplained injuries
- Pressure or bed sores
- Dehydration or malnutrition without a medical cause
- Unkempt appearance
- Withdrawal or depression
- Falls, especially if repeated