More than 1.5 million people currently reside in nursing homes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This growing population, partly due to the aging baby boomer generation, has led to an increase in nursing home abuse and neglect.
Studies by the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) show that 10% of nursing home residents have experienced some form of abuse in the past year. Unfortunately, many cases go unreported. Often, the responsibility of spotting abuse falls on family members and close friends.
Common types of nursing home abuse or injuries
Understanding the types of abuse can help you identify when something is wrong. Here are four common types of nursing home abuse:
- Physical: Look for sudden, unexplained injuries such as fractured bones, sprains, bruises, burns or the diagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease without an adequate explanation.
- Emotional: Watch for changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, isolation imposed by the caregiver, or a caregiver who is verbally aggressive, uncaring or demeaning.
- Sexual: Be alert for unexplained sexually transmitted diseases or trauma around the genitals, such as bruising or swelling.
- Neglect or abandonment: Signs include evidence of unadministered medication, deteriorating personal hygiene, lack of food, dirty living space, soiled clothing or bedding, bedsores, or a living space lacking basic necessities like heat, water or electricity.
In some nursing homes, staff members or others can also victimize residents through financial exploitation and healthcare fraud.
What can you do if you witness or suspect abuse?
If you believe a resident is a victim of abuse or neglect, your actions should reflect the urgency of the situation and the resident’s mental and physical state. Here are some steps you can take:
- Immediate danger: If the situation is urgent, call 911 or your local law enforcement authority right away.
- Non-emergency situations: Contact Adult Protective Services to report the abuse.
- Legal advice: Consider speaking with a lawyer who understands nursing home negligence. They can guide you through the appropriate steps to protect your loved one and report the abuse to the relevant state agency. Massachusetts and Rhode Island have different procedures, and a lawyer can assist you with these and follow up on any reports made to law enforcement.
Recognizing and acting on the signs of nursing home abuse is crucial for the safety and well-being of your loved one. Your vigilance can make a significant difference.