We trust nursing homes to take care of our elderly parents and other family members who require daily assistance. It is difficult to accept the possibility that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home, even when the signs are there. If someone you love is in a nursing home, it is essential to be mindful of the warning signs of negligence.
Emotional Withdrawal or Depression
If your loved one is reluctant to talk, distant from friends and family, and less interested in activities, it could be a sign that he or she is being neglected. Your loved one might feel unwanted, ignored, or unworthy of care.
Unexplained Physical Injuries
Unexplained broken bones, bruises, or head injuries could all be signs that something is amiss. While occasional falls in nursing homes are to be expected, the nursing home has a duty to take steps to prevent injury and provide a safe environment. Failing to provide a resident with the necessary assistance to get around the facility could be neglect on the nursing home’s part.
Skin Breakdown or Bedsores
Bedsores and skin breakdown are almost entirely preventable with proper care. Nursing home staff have the duty to reposition and turn residents throughout the day to make sure that they do not remain stationary for too long.
Poor Personal Hygiene
One of the most critical services provided by a nursing home is assistance with daily living skills. If your loved one appears as though he or she is not clean, is wearing dirty clothes, and has overgrown nails, it could be a sign that he or she is not getting the necessary care. Lack of personal hygiene can lead to skin infections and dental problems
Weight Loss or Dehydration
If you’ve noticed your loved one is losing a drastic amount of weight, this could be a sign that he or she is not receiving the proper nutrition. While some weight loss among the elderly is expected, noticeable weight loss could be a sign that the staff is not adequately feeding or monitoring the diet of your loved one.
Loss of Mobility
Nursing home residents often have trouble with mobility. A nursing home should make sure that residents move around and are as active as possible to help strengthen muscles and maintain whatever mobility they have. If your loved one is being neglected, he or she may be in bed for long periods of time and lose mobility.
If you are concerned that nursing home negligence has injured your loved one, contact the experienced attorneys at Bonina & Bonina, P.C. For 50 years we have been fighting for New Yorkers injured in nursing homes. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MED-LAW1 to schedule a free consultation.