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Elder abuse is a serious issue that affects countless seniors here in Connecticut and across the country. While the signs are wide-ranging, the Centers for Disease Control defines it generally as any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver, staff member, resident or institutional policy causing or creating a risk of harm to older adults.
What to look for
Elder abuse can happen anywhere, but some signs and examples in nursing homes and elder care facilities are:
- Physical abuse: This is when a resident suffers bodily harm or injuries inflicted by a caregiver or another resident. For example, another patient might hit or push a resident, causing physical injury. Signs include unexplained injuries.
- Neglect: This occurs when staff fails to provide proper medical care. An example would be a resident not receiving their prescribed medication on time or at all. This can involve staff inattention, poor training or understaffing.
- Sexual abuse: This involves unwanted or forced sexual interaction. An example could be a caregiver engaging in non-consensual sexual acts with a resident. Signs include bruising around private parts, agitation, torn clothing or unexplained bleeding.
- Emotional abuse: This refers to nonverbal or verbal behavior that cause anguish, fear, or distress. For instance, a caregiver might constantly belittle or threaten a resident, causing emotional distress. Signs include changes in behavior, including anger, fear and low self-esteem.
- Financial abuse: This is the unauthorized, illegal or improper use of an older adult’s money, property, benefits or assets. An example could be a caregiver stealing money or valuables from a resident or finding unusual charges on their credit cards.
- Self-neglect: This is characterized by behaviors that reflect a lack of self-care, such as not eating, drinking or taking essential medications. Staff should be on the lookout for this.
Seek legal help
Each of these forms of abuse can have devastating effects on the victims, leading to physical injuries, emotional trauma, financial loss, and, in severe cases, even death. Family members and friends must be vigilant and look out for signs of these types of abuse. If you suspect that your loved one is abused in a nursing home, it’s vital to take immediate action. Family members can notify management. If their response is unsatisfactory, it may be time to discuss the matter with a personal injury attorney who handles elder abuse cases.
