Nursing home neglect is a serious issue facing our society. Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that one out of every six individuals over 60 report experiencing some form of abuse within the past year. The rate of individuals harmed in nursing home facilities is even higher, with two out of every three staff members reporting that they have committed some form of abuse within the past year.
Given these statistics, if you have a loved one who lives in a nursing facility, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the telltale signs of abuse. If you suspect they may have been harmed, don’t hesitate to contact a Colorado nursing home abuse lawyer for help.
What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect in Colorado?
Those suffering from nursing home neglect in Colorado often exhibit the following signs:
- Physical indicators – Some physical signs of negligence that you may notice include unexplained bruises, cuts, or bedsores on your loved one. These injuries could indicate that your loved one is not receiving adequate supervision or help with mobility, leading to preventable harm. Other signs may include sudden weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition.
- Poor hygiene and living conditions – If you notice that your loved one shows personal hygiene problems, is unkempt, or is living in unsanitary conditions, these may result from negligence. Signs like foul odors, soiled bedding, or cluttered living spaces can indicate a lack of attention to residents’ basic needs and overall facility maintenance.
- Emotional and behavioral changes – Abuse can lead to changes in your loved one’s behaviors. They may experience increased agitation or seem withdrawn or depressed. They may also have fearful reactions toward certain staff members or not want to speak openly about their experiences.
- Medication mismanagement – Errors in administering medication or failing to distribute prescribed medications on time can lead to serious medical conditions. Unexplained changes in health conditions, frequent illnesses, or worsening symptoms despite medical intervention may point toward neglect in managing residents’ medication needs.
- Social isolation – Nursing home negligence can leave residents socially isolated or ignored by staff members. Lack of engagement in activities, limited interactions with other residents, or isolation from family visits can contribute to feelings of loneliness and abandonment.
- Unaddressed medical concerns – Delayed responses to medical emergencies, unattended injuries, or unexplained illnesses without proper medical attention are clear indicators of neglect. Failure to address residents’ medical needs in a timely manner can compromise their health and safety. In some cases, this can result in the need for immediate intervention.
Any of these negligent actions can lead to deteriorating health or worse. It is crucial to address any concerns of nursing home neglect as soon as possible to prevent further injuries.
What Are the Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?
While neglect is a failure to provide a resident with sufficient care, abuse is an act of harm committed against a resident. Some of the most common types of abuse and neglect include:
- Physical abuse – Physical abuse in nursing homes involves any intentional use of force that can result in bodily harm. This can include pushing, hitting, or restraining a resident. This form of abuse can result in physical injuries and emotional trauma.
- Emotional abuse – Actions that inflict psychological pain, fear, intimidation, or distress on residents through verbal threats, humiliation, isolation, or manipulation is abuse. Emotional abuse can cause residents to experience anxiety, depression, and a sense of powerlessness.
- Financial exploitation – Financial exploitation occurs when caregivers or staff misuse or steal a resident’s money, assets, property, or identity for personal gain. This may result in financial losses, reduced quality of life, and compromised dignity.
- Sexual abuse – Sexual assault in nursing homes can include any unwanted sexual contact, advances, or behavior towards residents. Sexual abuse can cause physical injuries, emotional distress, and long-lasting psychological trauma.
- Abandonment – Residents who rely on caregivers in assisted living facilities may be the victims of abandonment. This happens when caregivers fail to provide patients with essential needs and support. They may leave residents unattended, isolated from others, and vulnerable to neglect.
- Neglect of basic needs – Neglecting a resident’s basic needs can result in dehydration, malnutrition, and untreated medical conditions. When residents are not given adequate water, food, shelter, medical care, or hygiene care, their physical and emotional health will suffer.
How Do I Report Suspected Nursing Home Neglect?
If you suspect your loved one has been the target of elder abuse or neglect, it is essential to take immediate action to protect them from further harm. Here are the steps you can take:
- Document the abuse or neglect – You should keep detailed records of any neglect you observe. You want to keep track of the dates, times, and specific incidents to support your allegations.
- Contact Adult Protective Services – Report your concerns to the local Adult Protective Services (APS) agency responsible for investigating allegations of elder abuse and neglect.
- Remove your loved one from the facility – If you believe your loved one is in immediate danger, remove them from the situation immediately.
- Inform authorities – Notify the state ombudsman program or law enforcement if necessary.
- Seek legal advice – Proving nursing home neglect on your own can be challenging. Fortunately, you do not have to do so. Instead, you can schedule a consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney who handles nursing home neglect cases. They will be able to explain your rights and pursue your claim on your behalf.
How Can a Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer Help If I Suspect Nursing Home Neglect?
If you suspect your loved one has suffered nursing home abuse or neglect, a Colorado personal injury lawyer can help you by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation of the suspected nursing home neglect
- Gathering evidence of the abuse or neglect, interviewing witnesses, and building your case
- Determining the full extent of losses, including any applicable medical bills, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life
- Negotiating compensation on your behalf and holding the negligent or abusive party accountable
By seeking the services of a Colorado personal injury lawyer when you suspect nursing home neglect, you can protect your loved one’s rights and address your concerns.
Contact a Colorado Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
The Wilhite Law Firm understands how painful it can be to discover that your loved one has been the target of abuse and how challenging it can be to assert their rights. We want to simplify the process for you and handle your claim on your behalf, demanding fair compensation for what you and your family have suffered. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Colorado nursing home abuse attorney, and let’s discuss your case together.
