What Are the Warning Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect?

Lake County Nursing Home Injury Lawyers

Nursing home abuse and neglect can take many forms and there is a wide range of possible warning signs, which may include inexplicable injuries, significant weight loss, bedsores, insomnia, unusual irritability, and depression. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is being mistreated, an experienced nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer can help you take action.

There are countless physical and emotional indicators that could suggest that your loved one is not receiving proper care in a nursing home or a skilled nursing facility. Nursing home abuse and neglect are both extremely serious problems in Illinois and around the country, and it is important to understand the difference between the two.

Nursing home abuse refers to any action or inaction that includes the intent to harm a patient. Neglect refers to behaviors that do not include an intent to harm but that still fall short of proper care. Examples of nursing home abuse may include:

• Hitting, kicking, punching, or otherwise harming a patient;
• Unnecessarily restraining a patient, either by physical or chemical means;
• Intentionally over-medicating a patient;
• Verbal and emotional attacks against a patient; and
• Sexual abuse of a nursing home patient.

Common examples of nursing home neglect may include:

• Missed or mixed-up medications;
• Irregular meal schedules;
• Lack of adequate food or water;
• Failure to change soiled clothes or sheets in a timely manner;
• Poor personal hygiene practices; and
• Lack of attention from the staff.

An Experienced Wheaton Lawyer Can Help

Nursing homes are often understaffed, but patients should not be forced to suffer as a result. If you have a loved one in a nursing home who is not receiving quality care, contact a member of the team at Salvi & Maher, LLP today. We will investigate the situation and help you decide on the best course of action. Call 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation today. Our firm helps seniors and their families in DuPage County, Lake County, Wheaton, Waukegan, Richmond, and throughout Northern Illinois.