How to Stop Nursing Home Abuse
It’s devastating to find out that the facilities and caretakers you trust to care for your elderly loved ones are abusing or neglecting them. Nursing home abuse is all too common across Florida. You need to know the warning signs of elderly abuse and what to do if you suspect emotional, physical or financial mistreatment.
Look for the Warning Signs
There are usually early red flags of abuse or neglect in elderly care facilities. Pay close attention to the behavior of the staff and your loved one. If you arrive to see your family member and are not allowed to be alone with them or forced to wait, this could be a warning sign, and you should approach the facility administration to remedy the situation. Other signs are not as subtle. Keep watch for these abuse indicators:
- Bed sores
- Unexplained wounds
- Sexual abuse
- Poor hygiene
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Medication overuse
- Wrongful death
- Financial exploitation
Document Your Observations & Voice Your Concerns
If you suspect your loved one is being mistreated, write down what you’ve witnessed including conversations with the staff, your family member and the administration. Take photographs of any visible injuries or wounds. Do not ignore the early warning signs. Calmly approach the facility supervisors or administrators about your concerns and then follow up to ensure they’re receiving proper care and respect.
Call Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
Nursing home abuse is becoming more prevalent as families move away from at-home care and toward nursing home facilities. If you are even slightly suspicious your loved one is being neglected or abused, call our lawyers in Florida. We know how to build your case and hold nursing homes responsible for their grievous actions.
Above all, the most important aspect of stopping nursing home abuse is to say something as soon as you suspect negligence.
If you’re concerned nursing home caretakers are abusing your loved one, please contact our nursing home abuse lawyers in Florida as soon as possible at (407) 712-7300. Colling Gilbert Wright serves clients in Orlando, Florida and nationwide.