The decision to move a loved one into a nursing home and trust strangers to care for them is not an easy one.
When you visit your loved one in their care facility, you hope to see them happy, safe and cared for. Unfortunately, you may notice things that cause you increased concern instead.
What are some signs of nursing home neglect?
Common signs of nursing home neglect include bedsores, bruises, poor hygiene and malnutrition. As part of a care plan, nursing home staff should help residents with all activities of daily living. Dirty clothes, soiled bedding and unsanitary living conditions may be indicators that your loved one is not receiving proper care.
Are falls from wheelchairs a sign of neglect?
Though accidents do happen, a fall from a wheelchair is cause for concern and may be the result of neglect. Things like weakness, physical decline, imbalance, and confusion contribute to falls from wheelchairs. Nursing home patients should receive an evaluation of their physical and mental capacities regularly so that using home staff knows where they need assistance. Regular evaluations should allow nursing home staff to recognize the signs of decline so that they can take steps to prevent falls and injuries.
There are laws that protect the elderly from abuse and neglect. If you suspect your loved one is suffering from neglect or they are showing bruises and injuries from repeated falls from wheelchairs, speak with a legal professional to determine if you have a case for nursing home neglect.