Types of Elder Abuse: Attacks Against Senior Citizens in Nursing Homes
Some of the most heartbreaking cases we've dealt with at Chanfrau & Chanfrau are ones in which residents of assisted living facilities are harmed by the people who work there. We've seen how much this can damage families and erode the trust people place in others, which is why we are committed to helping all victims of elder abuse in Central Florida. Our skilled nursing home abuse attorneys will assist you with a lawsuit against the abusive workers and the facility itself, attempting to reform the system and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In order to fight back, it's important that you understand the kinds of abuse that may occur and what signs to look out for. Read on to inform and protect yourself and your loved ones.
Physical Abuse and Assaults Against the Elderly
Sometimes the people who work at nursing homes will be physically abusive to patients, striking, grabbing, or shaking them and doing serious bodily harm in the process. This type of physical abuse can also involve restraining the elderly patient without reason.
Psychological and Mental Abuse of Senior Citizens
Psychological abuse is also known to occur in assisted living facilities, with workers shouting and verbally harming the people they are supposed to care for. This kind of emotional and mental abuse is just as unacceptable as physical abuse.
Sexual Assault and Abuse Involving Nursing Home Residents
Sadly, there have been a number of cases in which nursing home workers have groped, fondled, or raped elderly residents. Any kind of unwanted and degrading contact, especially of this kind, is grounds for serious legal action.
Withholding Food, Water, and Medication
Deprivation of food, water, and medication is another kind of abusive behavior that may occur in nursing homes. This forced starvation and dehydration can lead to major health problems, and the same is true for cases in which necessary medication is not provided.
Neglecting Basic Care for the Elderly
Sometimes the worst kind of abuse is ignoring a person. We've sadly heard of nursing home workers leaving patients uncleaned, or allowing elderly residents to lay in one place for too long, resulting in bed sores. Both of these neglectful behaviors are unsafe and unsanitary.
Theft and Fraud Involving People In Assisted Living Facilities
With the threat of abuse comes other kinds of criminal actions. A number of times, nursing home workers will take advantage of residents in the facility, stealing from them or getting them involved in activities that deprive them of money. This level of deception and manipulation shouldn't be perpetrated on anyone, especially those who are most vulnerable among us.
Remove Your Loved One When You Notice Signs of Abuse
Keep note of the following signs of abuse and try to document these should they arise for your attorney:
- Bruises and cuts
- Bed sores
- Weight loss
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Unexplained injuries
- Reluctance to speak
- Impact to finances
- Changes in personality
- Visible stains on sheets or clothing
If you should notice any signs of abuse or neglect in your loved one, be sure to remove him or her from the facility and to look into the matter in more detail. The safety of your loved one is key, and making sure that the potential abuse is investigated is of the utmost importance.
Speak with Our Attorneys About Cases of Nursing Home Abuse
For more information about your legal rights in cases of abuse and neglect, it's important that you contact our personal injury attorneys today. The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau will help you and your loved ones seek justice against the abusers at an assisted living facility.