19 Jul The Different Types of Abuse Elders Are Subjected to in Nursing Homes
Over 60 million, that’s the number of seniors living in the US. But for some, independent living just isn’t possible anymore. Moving into nursing homes happens to be the most viable option for these seniors.
These homes are supposed havens with staff dedicated to providing the care and safety their families might not be able to manage at home. Amenities, medical attention, and a sense of community, all wrapped up in one place. But there’s a disturbing reality. Even in these places that are designed to be a safety net, elders are at risk of a whole other kind of danger.
Abuse is a common reality for most elders in nursing homes. If you think a loved one might be facing nursing home abuse, then you need to talk to a nursing home abuse attorney. They can fight to get your loved one the justice they deserve.
Now, let’s go deeper and see exactly what kind of abuse we’re talking about here.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse isn’t just about random accidents or bumps, these often come with aging. The abuse itself is a deliberate act of inflicting harm. Unexplained injuries like fractures, cuts, or bruises in unusual locations could be red flags.
Maybe your grandma suddenly flinches when you go to hug her. These could be signs of someone getting rough.
The abuse can be even more insidious if it involves the neglect of basic needs. Perhaps a caregiver “forgets” to help your loved one use the restroom, leading to humiliation and potential health complications.
Deliberately withholding food, water, or medication is another form of physical abuse, inflicting pain and suffering for the sake of convenience or control.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional manipulation can be just as devastating as a physical attack. Physical wounds may heal, but the scars of emotional abuse can linger long after the words have faded. This insidious form of abuse involves constant belittling, yelling, threats, and humiliation.
Isolation tactics, where caregivers restrict contact with family and friends, can further exacerbate the situation by making them feel more dependent and constrained by fear.
The emotional manipulation employed by abusers weakens the spirit and destroys self-esteem. They do this mainly to exert complete control over the victim, and it’s a tactic that preys on the vulnerability of seniors.
Abandonment
There’s nothing worse than sending your loved one to a nursing home, believing they’ll receive constant care and attention. However, upon visiting, you discover they’ve been left unattended, soiled, and distressed.
This is abandonment, a form of elder abuse that goes beyond mere neglect. It’s the deliberate withdrawal of the care and supervision an elder is entitled to.
Imagine a scenario where a resident with dementia, who relies on assistance for daily activities, is simply left alone for extended periods. This not only poses a safety risk but also plunges them into a terrifying isolation that can exacerbate cognitive decline.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse is a particularly insidious form of exploitation that preys on the vulnerability of seniors, often targeting those with diminished cognitive capacity. It can take many forms, including the unauthorized use of credit cards or bank accounts, manipulating residents into signing over assets, or even forging checks.
The financial toll of elder financial abuse is undeniable. Seniors, often living on fixed incomes, can be stripped of their hard-earned resources, and this can jeopardize their future.
But the emotional wounds cut even deeper. The betrayal of trust, the erosion of a lifetime of careful planning, and the fear of losing control over their finances can be crippling for any individual, especially vulnerable elders.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse not only inflicts physical pain but also shatters an elder’s sense of safety and security. It can take many forms, from unwanted touching to forced sexual acts.
The signs of sexual abuse might be subtle: unexplained genital bleeding, bruising, or infections; torn or bloody clothing; withdrawal or fear of certain caregivers or even their fellow residents. Such signs must never be taken lightly.
Reporting Elder Abuse to Adult Protective Services (APS)
Now, armed with this knowledge, what can you do if you suspect elder abuse? The good news is, there’s a dedicated resource available: Adult Protective Services (APS). APS is a government agency responsible for investigating reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults.
Contact your local APS office or call the National Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-677-1116.
Reporting can be done anonymously. Most states have a toll-free number for APS, or you can report online. APS will conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the safety of your loved one. They can also connect you with resources and support services to help your elder heal and rebuild their life.
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Last Updated on August 2, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD