You Ok Grandma? 5 Shocking Signs of Abuse and Neglect

The elderly population is growing by leaps and bounds, with some estimates suggesting that by 2060, there will be over 98 million elderly adults in the United States (age 65 and older). 

With so many adults entering old age, the need for nursing homes continues to grow as well. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect is also on the rise, leaving many families worried about the well-being of their aging parents and grandparents. 

You can protect your loved from abuse by looking out for some of the common signs of abuse and neglect. If you notice any of the following, don’t waste any time in getting help for your loved one in case abuse is present:

Unexplained Bruises or Fractures

Clear signs of abuse and neglect include the appearance of bruises or the occurrence of unexplained fractures.

Sometimes accidents happen, but if you notice large bruises more than once or if your loved one often has bandages or has suffered a broken bone while in their nursing home, there’s a reason for concern.

If your loved one is being harmed, either physically or emotionally, you might need to seek legal help through USAttorneys.com. 

Bed Sores

If you notice bed sores, this is almost surely a sign of neglect. Bed sores are preventable when proper care is shown, so if your loved one has bed sores, they’ve probably spent too much time in a stationary position without being checked on or re-situated by nursing staff. 

Noticeable Changes in Mental Well-Being

Nursing home staff will sometimes abuse medication to subdue their patients and make their job easier. When you visit your loved one, pay attention to their mental state.

Do they seem more confused, in a stupor, or mentally “checked out”? If you notice these changes, act immediately to figure out the cause for this dramatic change in behavior. It’s tempting to assume that some of these changes are due to the effects of Alzheimers or dementia when in reality, it’s something else. You might find that nursing home abuse is to blame. 

Change in Cheerfulness

Is your loved one starting to become more withdrawn? Do they isolate themselves and avoid social hours and meal times at the nursing home? Do they resist confiding in you or opening up to you about their day or their activities?

When you’re being abused, physically or verbally, becoming withdrawn and isolated is a common reaction. 

Pay attention if your loved one has stopped interacting with staff members.

Do they avoid looking staff in the eye? Do they visibly pull back from attending staff or have a look of fear or anxiety when a nurse or doctor enters the room? Do they avoid talking to a specific care provider? These may all be signs of abuse and neglect. 

Get Help for Your Loved One

If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, get legal help and begin the process of looking for another care option. 

Learn what you can about how to find the right nursing home by reading our article on what to look out for. You’ll also find lots of other articles with unexpected tips and tricks for living a healthier life. 

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