Recognize the Warning Signs of Elder Abuse:
If one or more of these indicators have occurred diligent attention or investigation is needed.
Physical Warning Signs of Abuse or Neglect
- Bruises, black eyes, welts, lacerations, rope marks
- Bone fractures, broken bones, and skull fractures
- Open wounds, cuts, punctures, untreated injuries in various stages of healing
- Sprains, dislocations, and internal injuries/bleeding
- Broken eyeglasses/frames, physical signs of being subjected to punishment, and signs of being restrained;
- Signs of excessive drugging
- Elder report of being hit, slapped, kicked, or mistreated
- Elder’s sudden change in behavior
- Caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see an elder alone.
- Excessive Weight loss
- Untreated Medical Condition
- Poor Hygiene, uncombed or matted hair
- Call light is not functioning or removed from residents reach
- Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
- Patches of missing hair or bleeding scalp
Nursing Home Residents have Rights!
Each Resident has the Right to:
- Be treated with consideration, respect and dignity
- Privacy during treatment and personal care
- Receive and make phone calls in private
- Send and receive mail unopened
- Visit privately with family, friends and others
- Be fully informed by a physician of his or her total health care status
- Medical condition & Treatment
- Participate in health care planning and treatment decision
- Choose a personal physician
- Be free from unnecessary drug treatment
If you would like to see how Nursing Homes in your area rate on various criteria please visit the medicare government website. Evaluations include; Health Inspections, Staffing ratings, Quality ratings and Overall Ratings-
For a guide to choosing a nursing home and a nursing home checklist please visit link.