Nursing home abuse is a huge problem in the state of Maryland. The elderly and the infirm are some of the most vulnerable members of society. Most people would hope these at-risk individuals would be treated with the utmost care, but that is not always the case. Nursing home neglect can come in many forms, and some of the worst abuse is the result of negligence.
Common forms of nursing home abuse
There are many ways in which nursing home patients can be abused. Some of the must common forms of nursing home abuse include:
- physical abuse
- sexual abuse
- psychological abuse
- financial abuse
- theft
- neglect
- malnutrition
- isolation
- forced restraint
- lack of medical care
- lack of physical activity
- medical malpractice
Medical abuse of nursing home patients
While physical abuse may be best known, nursing home medical neglect can be just as deadly and insidious. This includes medical malpractice by nursing home employees. Errors made in managing the medication of patients seem to be increasing. This is vital since many patients depend on their medication to live. Negligent and unqualified nursing home staff that are responsible for such mistakes should be held to account.
Signs of nursing home abuse
Sadly, nursing home abuse may not always be readily apparent. The abusers tend to be careful to avoid detection from outsiders. However, signs of abuse and neglect that others may notice include:
- poor health
- new illness
- bed sores
- rashes
- broken bones
- marks and bruises
- uncleanliness
- anxiety
- depression
- weight loss
- changes in wills, insurance or power of attorney
- unexplained financial changes
Overall, it’s important that the rest of society takes action to protect nursing home patients. Nursing home abuse can take many forms, including harder-to-detect abuse such as medication mismanagement. When this abuse is discovered, action should be taken to punish those responsible.
