Family Uncovers Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Following recent news reports regarding various incidences of nursing home abuse and neglect across the country, recommendations have followed instructing families to be alert to signs of abuse or neglect such as weight loss, unexplained injuries or behavioral changes to name a few.

A family in Michigan took that advice to heart noticing that their 89-year-old father had in fact been losing weight and had cuts and bruises on his body since becoming a resident at an area nursing home. Concerned, the family decided to see for themselves whether anything was amiss and installed a camera in their father’s room where their worst fears were confirmed – their dad was indeed a victim of nursing home abuse and neglect.

Unfortunately, stories of nursing home abuse and neglect are all too common. In this case, the family’s attention to their dad’s deteriorating condition likely saved him from further harm. It certainly underscores the importance of being observant to the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect to protect elderly family members.

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial or sexual. More obvious signs include unusual bruising or bleeding, open wounds, bed sores or cuts, burns and abrasions, weight loss, and poor hygiene. Less obvious signs may include listlessness, strange behaviors, physical or emotional withdrawal, disappearance of personal items or sudden and unusual financial transactions.

Contact an Experienced Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect Lawyer

Family members who feel as if something is off should follow up on their concerns to rule out abuse or neglect and seek legal help if a family member is injured as a result of nursing home abuse or neglect. If your family member has been injured in an Iowa nursing home, contact the Des Moines, Iowa nursing home abuse lawyers of John T. Hemminger for help today at 515-283-2116.

Source: NBC26, “Family sues Michigan nursing home over elder abuse that was caught on camera”, March 5, 2018