Nursing Home Abuse: 5 Signs Your Loved One is Suffering

The last thing we ever want to think about is our aging loved ones being abused by those we leave to care for them, but unfortunately, it is a real danger in this world and something we have to be aware of. While the existence of one particular warning sign is no guarantee that something is going on, it is important to have an awareness about what to look for.

Here are 5 different signs of possible nursing home abuse.

1. Physical Signs

Physical injuries are of course an indicator of physical abuse, especially if they seem to occur regularly. Some signs may include bone injuries, bruising, or even burns.

Pay particular attention to bruising in the form of fingerprints on the biceps or leg and bruises that always seem to be conveniently placed so as not to be easily detected. While these are not always from direct physical abuse, they may be the result of rough treatment and mishandling.

2. Withdrawal

If your loved one suddenly withdraws from social contact and the activities they normally love, it may be a good reason to pay attention. Sudden mood swings can indicate non-physical abuse, and they should be worrying even when abuse is nonexistent as they can indicate health issues as well.

3. Financial Problems

Sometimes abuse may come in the form of someone taking financial advantage. Strange financial transactions or sudden losses of money should always be looked into. Know who is taking care of their money, and make sure more than one person has the ability to overlook finances.

4. Health Issues

Physical results of any kind of abuse may not simply manifest as bigger injuries, like broken bones or bruising; sometimes they come in the form of declining health, lack of medical care, bedsores, weight fluctuations, or little attendance to hygienic care.

5. Relationship Dynamics

If your loved one is suddenly not getting along with their caregiver, this can be a sign something else is going on. Pay attention to excessive arguments or other stressful relationship dynamics.

Just like with any person who suddenly has a change in behavior, any time someone suddenly begins acting different it is time to find out why. Behavioral problems are often the result of something physical emotional, whether that be due to physical abuse, neglect, emotional turmoil, or simply declining health. These are all issues that should be attended to, and if that is not happening, that is a big problem in itself.