Signs That Your Loved One Is Suffering From Nursing Home Elder Abuse

How to Recognize Signs of Elder Abuse

The following factors on their own may not be an indication of elder abuse or neglect; however, they can help when assessing suspected cases of abuse:

Possible indicators of physical abuse

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, welts, broken bones, and/or burns
• An injury that has not been properly cared for
• Soiled bed linen or clothing
• Improper use of an elder’s medication

Possible indicators of financial abuse

• Signatures on checks or other financial documents that do not match the elder’s signature
• Unusual or inappropriate activity in bank accounts
• Numerous unpaid bills that the caregiver is responsible for paying
• Missing valuable belongings
• Deliberate isolation of an elder to allow a caregiver sole responsibility
• Recent changes to a will or power of attorney that relinquish the elder’s power
• Lack of grooming items and sufficient clothing when the elder has sufficient funds to purchase these items

Possible indicators of psychological abuse

• The elder shows fear in the presence of the caregiver
• The elder is reluctant to talk to another person in the presence of the caregiver
• The elder gives implausible stories in explanation to injuries
• The elder shows signs of depression and withdrawal

Possible indicators of neglect

• The elder is improperly dressed
• The elder is undernourished or dehydrated
• The elder shows signs of lack of hygiene such as urine smells, soiled underwear, and clothing
• There are safety hazards in the elder’s immediate environment
• The elder has sores, rashes, or lice
• The elder is not receiving the required medication

Do You Believe Your Loved One Has Been Subjected To Nursing Home Abuse?

If you feel your loved one has been subjected to nursing home abuse or neglect you need to speak with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help clients in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.