Since nursing home abuse and neglect in Riverside County can take many forms, it can be challenging to know whether or not a specific sign is likely to indicate nursing home abuse. It is imperative to keep in mind that any sign or symptom that raises concern should be investigated. Given that even small changes in a senior’s behavior can indicate a much larger problem, it is critical to take any concerns seriously. At the same time, some signs and symptoms of nursing home abuse and neglect are more common than others, so you should be particularly attuned to certain indicators. The following are ten of the most common signs of elder abuse in nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Southern California.
1. Unexplained Bruises and Other Soft Tissue Injuries
Anytime a senior has unexplained bruises, cuts, burn marks, or any other related injuries, they should be taken extremely seriously. They are often a sign of physical abuse.
2. Bed Sores and Other Infections
Bed sores can develop when a senior receives insufficient care and especially when seniors with mobility issues are not properly attended to. Other infections can also be signs of neglect.
3. Bone Fractures
Broken bones can be a sign of intentional physical abuse, and they can also be an indicator of passive neglect. When a facility does not provide proper attention to seniors with mobility issues, or when the facility fails to account for slip and fall or trip and fall hazards, seniors can fall and break bones.
4. Untidy Living Area
When an older adult’s living area is untidy or when they have an unkempt appearance, this can be a sign of neglect.
5. Unexplained Depression or Anxiety
Many older adults can experience seemingly unexplained depression or anxiety when they are the targets of nursing home abuse. If you notice a change in a loved one’s behavior or emotional state, take that as a serious warning sign.
6. History of Resident Complaints
If residents have complained about aspects of life or safety at the facility, take those complaints seriously.
7. Previous Safety Violations
A history of safety violations at a nursing home or assisted living facility is an obvious indicator of previous incidents of abuse or neglect. Yet you should also be aware that abuse and neglect can occur at any facility, so even if there are no safety violations on record, you should still be as vigilant as possible.
8. Unexplained Weight Loss or Malnutrition
Malnutrition, dehydration, and unexplained weight loss are common indicators of neglect.
9. Vocalized Dislike or Fear of a Staff Member
If an elderly loved one says they do not like a particular staff member or fear a specific employee, take these kinds of comments seriously — they are frequently indicators of abuse.
10. High Staff Turnover At the Facility
According to U.S. News & World Report, high staff turnover at a nursing home is a common sign that there are problems at the facility, and there is a possibility of abuse or neglect.
Contact a Riverside County Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today
If you have an elderly loved one at a nursing home or assisted living facility in Southern California, and if you have concerns about their safety, you should seek legal advice. One of the experienced Riverside County nursing home neglect attorneys at our firm can help you. Contact the Walton Law Firm to discuss your case with a dedicated lawyer today.
See Related Blog Posts:
What Are the Early Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in Orange County?
Gender-Based Violence and Nursing Home Abuse in San Bernardino County