Research by the National Center on Elder Abuse found that 44% of nursing home residents are abused, and 95% said they were a victim of, or witnessed neglect. Elder abuse, also known as nursing home abuse, is often reported late — or not at all — making it hard to know how many victims are really suffering.
This is why it is important that if you see an elderly person being abuse or if you suspect your own family member to being abused, contact us immediately.
Identifying Neglect
Pressure ulcers or bedsores are the most common signs of elderly neglect. A person who is unable to adjust himself or herself needs to be repositioned every two hours. Plus, he or she needs good dietary nutrition and hydration to combat sores. When this doesn’t happen, the skin begins to decay, and a painful pressure ulcer starts.
Stages of a Pressure Ulcer
- The skin begins to look lightly pigmented.
- The skin begins to break open and the wound begins to burrow down.
- A distinct smell occurs as the skin dies, and the sore has burrowed down to the fatty level of the skin. The wound becomes a highway for infection
- If left untreated, the wound will tunnel down to the muscle or bone. This is a horrific and painful way to die.
UTI
Urinary tract infections are not common regardless of what a nursing facility leads you to believe. Elderly individuals need proper hydration to combat UTIs. If your loved one keeps developing UTIs, this could be a sign of neglect. Keep an eye out for bacteria collection in a urine sample. This shows bad hygiene practices.
Understaffing
Understaffing is the number one cause of neglect. Many facilities chose revenue over residents. They will employ a young person without certification to reside over 10 residents who need to reposition them ever two hours. Not to mention ensure they are fed, clean and have all their medical needs taken care of. This becomes almost impossible for an unskilled nursing assistant. Many of these care workers raise concerns and are either fired or ignored.
Free Elderly Neglect Consultation
If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, do not accept denials. Instead, contact a knowledgeable lawyer experienced with representing victims. We have been assisting the injured for 20 years. We help clients from all over the country. Our consultations are completely free. Call today.