Elder abuse injuries can occur in any resident of a nursing home regardless of their condition, age, and gender. Certain risk factors make this abuse more likely. To be clear, just because these risk factors are present doesn’t necessarily mean that your loved one will experience nursing home abuse–it only means they are at a greater risk of neglect and abuse. You should not delay in speaking with a capable attorney if you believe your elderly loved one is the victim of any form of abuse or neglect.
Cognitive Impairment
Nursing home residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are at particularly great risk of suffering elder abuse and neglect. Overall rates of abuse by caregivers in patients suffering from dementia range between 34–62% as per a study conducted by the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, and the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA). Researchers, through a study centered on seniors with dementia in the United States, found that over 47% of patients had experienced some form of elder abuse and neglect. Passive neglect, physical abuse, and verbal abuse are common forms of elderly abuse in patients suffering from dementia.
Physical Health Risks
Mobility issues and physical health concerns are common risk factors as per the World Health Organization (WHO) where nursing home abuse is concerned. Older adults who require assistance with mobility, physical care, and activities of daily living (ADLs) are at a greater risk of passive neglect and abuse. ADLs include eating, dressing, and grooming. In particular, women residents are at a higher risk in such situations. It may also include bathroom and bathing assistance. These seniors are not just at a greater risk of suffering acts of intentional emotional and physical abuse. They are also at a greater risk of suffering injuries as a result of the neglect experienced. They may not receive the level of attention and care they require to remain healthy.
Mental Health Risks
There is no denying the fact that elderly people living in nursing homes with mental health issues are usually at a higher risk of neglect and abuse. They may suffer from a wide array of elderly home abuse, including emotional, psychological, and physical abuse. Older adults with mental health conditions may be subject to chemical restraints in some cases. They may be given medications for off-label usage which may prove to be harmful and dangerous. The worst part is that such individuals find it difficult to convey the abuse and neglect suffered.
Dependence and Disability
Seniors that rely on a caregiver for assistance and their needs are usually at a greater risk of experiencing serious injuries. Disabled elders may not have their needs taken care of and may experience neglect and abuse in nursing homes.
Speak With an Experienced Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Nursing home abuse and neglect can occur in many ways. Your loved ones may be entitled to compensation if their abuse and neglect was intentional or because of a lapse in management. The attorneys at Walton Law can help you understand your legal rights and the next steps to take. We will help you fight for justice for your loved one. To request your free, no-obligations consultation, call us at (866) 338-7079 or complete this online form.