Personal circumstances and the level of care an elderly person needs sometimes requires that he or she be placed in a nursing facility where the best of care can be provided. However, in some cases, nursing home neglect may occur. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is being abused or neglected in a North Liberty nursing home, there are several signs you can watch for.
Poor Hygiene
When you visit your loved one, observing how clean they are can help you gauge whether he or she is being looked after properly. Uncombed or dirty hair, stained clothing and body odor can all be signs that the nursing home staff is not providing the level of care it should be.
Sores or Wounds
If your elderly relative must spend a lot of time in bed or in a wheelchair, healthcare workers at the nursing home should take special care to ensure they are moved often to prevent the development of bedsores and other skin problems. Open sores that do not seem to be healing or the presence of new sores, rashes and cuts may be signs of nursing home neglect and should be addressed right away.
Sudden Mental Decline
While most nursing home patients can adjust well to their environment, a resident who was previously content but suddenly shows signs of mental decline may be experiencing neglect. When patients are ignored and experience little to no human interaction, this can cause them to shut down. If your loved one displays signs of emotional abuse, you should speak with the facility director right away.
Nursing home neglect in North Liberty can happen at any facility and for a number of reasons. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is suffering at the hands of the nursing home staff, it is a good idea to take action right away, whether you work with the home’s director or seek legal representation to improve his or her quality of life.
