When we help a loved one move into assisted living, we trust that the staff will work hard to keep them happy, healthy and comfortable.
The reality is that this often isn’t the case.
Nursing home neglect and abuse are unfortunately common in the United States. According to a study by the National Center on Elder Abuse, as many as 1 in 3 nursing homes may be guilty of some form of abuse or neglect. This can include everything from mistreatment and verbal abuse to malnutrition and physical assault.
These abuses can have devastating consequences for elderly patients. They can cause physical injury, emotional distress, and even death. And often, family members have no idea that their loved one is being mistreated until it’s too late.
Signs of a bad nursing home
If you’re considering a nursing home for a loved one, it’s important to do your homework. Don’t just choose the first nursing home you find in the phone book. Take the time to visit different facilities and talk to staff members. Pay attention to how the patients are treated and whether the facility seems clean and well-organized.
You should also look into the nursing home’s history. Has it been cited for any violations? Are there any complaints or lawsuits pending against it? These are all red flags that could indicate problems with the quality of care at the facility.
Warning signs of a bad nursing home can be difficult to spot, but there are some that you should be aware of.
Unsanitary Conditions
One of the most obvious signs of a bad nursing home is unsanitary conditions. This can include everything from dirty floors and bathrooms to foul odors and vermin infestations.
If you notice that the facility your loved one is staying in is unclean, it’s important to speak to a staff member about it. If the problem is not addressed, it’s possible that your loved one could become sick as a result of the unsanitary conditions.
Poorly Trained or Unqualified Staff
Another sign of a bad nursing home is poorly trained or unqualified staff. This can be difficult to spot, as many nursing homes do a good job of hiding this fact, but there are some telltale signs that you should look out for.
For example, if you see high turnover rates among staff members, it can indicate that employees are not happy with their work environment or that the facility is not providing adequate training.
Lack of Activities
Many nursing homes offer activities and programs for residents. But if you notice that your loved one’s facility doesn’t seem to offer much in the way of activities, that’s a sign that something might be wrong.
A lack of activities can lead to boredom and isolation, which can have a negative impact on a person’s mental health.
Signs of nursing home abuse or neglect
If you have a loved one in a nursing home, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of abuse or neglect. Some signs to watch for include:
- Unexplained bruises or injuries
- Bed sores or other signs of poor hygiene
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as depression or irritability
- Sudden weight loss or dehydration
- Inadequate food or water intake
- Signs of infection or medication errors
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to speak up and take action. You can contact the nursing home staff directly, or you can contact an attorney who specializes in elder law.
The sooner you address the issue, the better chance you have of preventing further mistreatment.
Work with experienced nursing home neglect attorneys
If you suspect that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home, the experienced attorneys at NGK Law can help. We have represented many victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, and we know how to get results.
We will work diligently to investigate your claim and gather evidence to support your case. We will also fight for you to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation – (314) 350-1900.