Sometimes it’s necessary to place an elderly loved one in a nursing home or healthcare facility. This often happens when an elderly person can no longer care for themself and it’s impossible for family members to give the time to care for them.
While you may expect your elderly loved one to get the care they need, it’s not always possible. If you’re afraid that your elderly loved one is being abused while under the supervision of healthcare workers, you may need to look for these signs:
Bedsores
Bedsores are usually the first sign that a loved one is facing elder abuse. Bedsores are injuries that occur when there is prolonged pressure on the skin, typically when someone is not regularly moved. This injury can cause infections and life-threatening medical conditions. If a loved one has developed bedsores, then they are likely not getting the care they need.
Unexplainable bruises, broken bones, cuts and burns
As people get older, they become more frail, which can mean injuries are easier to obtain. However, an elderly loved one shouldn’t have injuries that are unexplainable, such as bruises, broken bones, cuts, bleeding and burns for example. If a loved one has any of these injuries, then they may be suffering abuse from a caretaker.
Sudden emotional changes
Being placed in a nursing home or healthcare facility can negatively affect many elderly people. However, if an elderly loved one has a sudden emotional shift, such as becoming reserved, aggressive or depressed, then they may be suffering from abuse.
Stolen possessions and missing savings
Many elderly people take personal possessions in long-term care facilities. However, elderly people may be taken advantage of. Healthcare workers may steal valuable possessions. An elderly loved one may even be tricked into giving up personal information that would cause savings to be stolen from their bank or credit cards taken out in their name.
Knowing what to do next after discovering your elderly loved one is a victim of abuse is crucial so they can get the help they need. You may need to reach out for legal help to learn about your options.