Signs of Elder Abuse
Jul 16, 2010 / By: Michael Bonfrisco, Estate Planning Attorney / Category: Elder LawIt can sometimes be difficult to know if someone you loved is being abused at a nursing home. While some signs of abuse are obvious, many others aren’t and if the loved one is senile, they may not be able to really speak up.
They might also be afraid of their abuser.
To ensure that your loved one receives only the best of care, you should make frequent, unannounced visits and watch closely for any signs of abuse. Some of the more common signs include:
- Repeated arguments between an elderly person and particular caregivers
- Drug overdoses, irregular medications, or any other such problems relating to medicine
- Unexplained physical injury, broken bones, burns, bruises, etc.
- Broken personal items like eyeglasses, frames, sticks, etc.
- Unexplained depression, withdrawal from activities, change in alertness, etc.
- Change in financial situation, loss of money,
- Poor hygiene, weight loss, unattended medical needs, bed sores
- A sense of fear in the elderly person
- You are not allowed to visit the elderly person alone and a caregiver is constantly present
- Unsuitable clothing
- Lack of amenities like proper water or hazardous living condition like faulty electrical wiring
- Missing personal items, cash
- Changes in wills, titles, policies, power of attorney
- Inadequate answers from caregivers about the help or care being provided to an elderly person.
Often, elderly people suffer in silence so if you know of someone staying at a nursing home it is your duty to watch out for these signs of abuse and contact an attorney if you suspect anything wrong.
The Bonfrisco Law Firm is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.
