Signs of Nursing Home Negligence

Understanding the signs of nursing home negligence can help you determine whether your loved one has suffered at the hands of a caregiver. If you have questions about common signs of nursing home negligence, the team at our Daytona, FL, law firm can help. At Chanfrau & Chanfrau, we have a wealth of experience in this area of law, and can provide your family with the counsel you need to make informed decisions regarding your legal rights. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, don't hesitate to contact our law office today.

Common Indicators of Abuse and Neglect

We stress to people who have questions regarding nursing home abuse that not all forms of negligence are physical in nature. Additionally, abuse does not have to be willful or malicious in nature in order for there to be a violation of duty on the caregiver's part. If your loved one has been abused, neglected, abandoned, or had his or her legal rights violated in any way, it may be grounds for criminal charges or a civil claim. Our team can review your case, investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse, and advise you on your claim eligibility.

Emotional Abuse

In many ways, emotional abuse is the hardest of all to prove, as unlike physical abuse, there are no outwardly visible symptoms. Of course, if your loved one has expressed to you that he or she is being emotionally abused, we urge you to take action immediately. But if you only suspect abuse is occurring, look out for:

• Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities
• Sudden change in alertness
• Unusual depression and sadness
• Strained or tense relationships with caregivers or other residents
• Frequent arguments with caregivers or other residents

If you notice any of these symptoms, speak with your family member to inquire about the possible cause.

Abandonment and Neglect

In many cases, elderly residents of nursing homes are simply neglected. Whether such neglect is intentional or not, it must be treated as a serious concern, as individuals in nursing homes are partly or wholly dependent on their caregivers for basic needs. Neglect can lead to physical and emotional ailments that pose enormous risk to the victim. Common signs of neglect or abandonment include:

• Bedsores
• Unattended medical needs
• Poor hygiene
• Soiled sheets or clothing
• Unusual weight loss
• Dehydration

If you notice any of these signs speak with the care facility at once, and if necessary, seek legal counsel in order to protect your loved one's rights.

Physical Abuse

Sadly, those who are least capable of defending themselves are often the victims of willful and malicious physical abuse. In such cases, we urge your family to explore all possible avenues in order to exact a just resolution and hold the perpetrator responsible. In addition to criminal charges against the suspect, you may be able to file a civil claim as well. If you believe that your loved one is being physically abused, look for:

• Bruises
• Pressure marks
• Abrasions
• Burns

Don't hesitate to take action if you suspect abuse is taking place. At Chanfrau & Chanfrau, we can help ensure your rights and those of your loved one are represented in civil court.

Sexual Abuse

In addition to physical abuse, nursing home residents may also suffer sexual abuse at the hands of their caregivers or other residents. In all cases, the care facility and its staff may be held accountable for a breach of duty. If your loved one has been sexually abused, we want to help. Ask your loved one if he or she has been abused if you suspect this to be the case, and look for bruises around the breasts, genitals, or rectum. Remember, your loved one's long-term care and well-being is the responsibility of the nursing home staff. 

Take Action Now

Your loved one's well-being, health, and quality of life are our priority. If you suspect abuse is occurring, our team is here to provide assistance in the form of legal counsel and aggressive representation. We are large enough to help, but pride ourselves on being small enough to care; rest assured, we have your best interests in mind. Schedule a consultation today.