Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or even financial.

Signs of neglect range from soiled clothing or linens to malnourishment and dehydration.

Traces of physical abuse include:

Unexplained bruises, cuts, abrasions, or burns

Broken bones

Pressure marks

Torn or bloody clothing

Abuse may manifest in more subtle or unrecognized ways. Emotional abuse, for example, may result in:

Tension or silence around caretakers

Emotional withdrawal, mood swings, or personality changes

To ensure that no financial exploitation has occurred, it’s important to watch for sudden changes in wills, powers of attorney, and bank accounts.

A senior citizen may be suffering from memory loss, confusion, or communication difficulties, but they are an indispensable resource.

Speak to the nursing home staff as well. You might gain valuable insight into the situation at the facility.

Talk to family members of other residents. They might be experiencing similar problems.

Unless there are obvious signs of abuse, it’s good to double check before reporting the situation.

We may overreact at times when dealing with vulnerable loved ones.

Talk to someone you trust, whether that be a doctor, a friend, or a family member. A second opinion from a more detached party might help you verify your suspicions or gain perspective.

As long as there are no clear manifestations of aggression or ill intent, talk to the offending CNA.

Sometimes a well-intentioned caregiver is unaware that their actions are causing harm.

If that doesn’t resolve the situation, speak with the floor supervisor and then the home administrator.

Before you report abuse, gather as many details and as much evidence as possible.

Take pictures of any physical marks such as bruises or cuts. Write down the particulars of any incidents you witness or hear about. Be as specific as possible.

Obtain relevant medical records and be prepared to answer questions about the victim’s mental and physical health.

You can officially report elder abuse to the appropriate state’s Adult Protective Services (APS).

You can also contact county authorities or the state ombudsman, who handles complaints about government-regulated agencies such as nursing homes (some assisted living centers may not be regulated).

If you suspect that someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local police.

If there has been abuse or neglect, you should contact a personal injury attorney or nursing home lawyer.

Swift legal action can lead to restitution in cases of financial exploitation or compensation for injuries resulting from neglect or abuse.

Holding offending nursing homes legally responsible will help assure quality care for all elders.

Since 1996, Marc J. Shuman & Associates has successfully represented more than 10,000 personal injury victims.

With 77 combined years of experience and tens of millions of dollars in recoveries, our experienced attorneys are prepared to

fight to obtain compensation for those who have suffered serious injury or the wrongful death of a loved one.

Visit www.shumanlegal.com to learn more about our dedication to achieving a favorable outcome for our clients.

http://www.ncea.aoa.gov/Resources/Publication/docs/LTCF_ResearchBrief_web508.pdf