Signs of Abuse
Since the 1980s, a series of governmental legislation has been enacted to ensure nursing homes provide quality care for the highest practical physical, mental, psychosocial well-being of each resident. To participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs certain federal guidelines must be met. These include maintaining adequate nursing staff, assessing the functional capacity of each resident, and maintaining good nutrition, grooming and personal oral hygiene of each resident. Unfortunately, not all nursing homes follow these standards and neglect and abuse do occur.
- Neglect
Neglect can take many forms and be very hard to detect. It could be failure to change clothes, not providing bathing opportunities or sufficient food and water. If a staff member fails to assist with bathing, eating, or walking when that assistance is needed this could also be neglect. To recognize neglect evaluate the cleanliness of the bathrooms, a resident's clothes, nails, hair and attitudes.
- Physical Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. Abuse can be an intentional physical act such as hitting, inappropriate drugging, restraining, or burning. Physical neglect can be defined as failing to provide a basic element for the resident's survival. This could include not providing food, water, heat/air conditioning, or allowing unsupervised wandering.
- Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is sometimes present in assisted living settings. Sexual abuse may be from the staff or other residents. Sexual abuse can take many forms such as sexual intercourse, nude photography and sexual battery.
- Mental Abuse
Unfortunately, mental abuse may not be as visible or easily recognized as other types of abuse, but it is very serious. Mental abuse could include: yelling, verbally harassing, isolating or intimidating a resident. If you have witnessed any of these health issues with a loved one or family member a personal injury attorney familiar with personal injury law can help evaluate your personal injury case.
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