Taking care of an elderly loved one in a nursing home can be challenging. You might not always be there to see that they may be dealing with neglect and abuse day-to-day.
Sometimes, signs of neglect can be hard to spot or might look like normal aging. But catching these signs early can really improve your family member’s life.
Red flags to watch for
Your loved one’s well-being depends on quality care from nursing home staff. Knowing which red flags to look out for can help ensure they receive proper attention. Keep an eye out for these subtle signs that might mean your loved one isn’t getting the care they need:
- Weight loss: If your loved one is losing a large amount of weight quickly, it might mean they’re not eating or drinking enough.
- Falls: Too many falls could show that staff aren’t helping or watching closely enough.
- Dirty appearance: Unwashed clothes, bad smells, or messy hair could mean neglect.
- Mood swings: Something might be wrong if your loved one seems more anxious or sad than usual.
- Mixed-up medicines: Getting the wrong medicine or wrong doses can be dangerous.
These signs don’t always mean there’s neglect, but they’re worth looking into more closely.
Steps to take if you’re worried
Taking action promptly is crucial if you suspect negligence. A swift response can make a significant difference in your loved one’s care. If you notice any of these signs, here’s what you can do to help:
- Write down what you see and when you see it
- Talk to the people in charge at the nursing home
- Ask your loved one’s doctor about the changes you’ve noticed
- Report your suspicions to the state
- Think about talking to a lawyer who knows about nursing home cases
Taking these steps can help keep your loved one safe and might even help other residents too.
Your watchful eye can make a big difference in the care your family member receives. By knowing what to look for, you’re taking an important step in protecting your loved one and making sure they’re treated well in their nursing home.