Nursing Home Abuse

Recognizing Nursing Home Abuse Isn’t Always Easy

Abuse and neglect are not always physical or obvious. In fact, many residents stay silent due to fear, shame, or mental limitations. That’s why it’s critical to recognize the different types of abuse and their warning signs.

Neglect vs. Abuse: What’s the Difference?

• Neglect occurs when basic needs like food, water, hygiene, or medical care are not provided. Often linked to understaffing or inadequate training.

• Abuse is intentional harm, whether physical, emotional, financial, or sexual. It can come from individual staff members or reflect a deeper, systemic issue within the facility.

Types of Nursing Home Abuse

• Physical Abuse – Hitting, slapping, improper restraint

• Emotional Abuse – Verbal threats, humiliation, isolation

• Sexual Abuse – Nonconsensual acts or unwanted touching

• Neglect – Failure to meet basic physical and medical needs

• Abandonment – Leaving residents unattended or isolated

• Financial Exploitation – Theft, fraud, or coercion

• Self-Neglect – When a resident cannot care for themselves and is not helped by staff

Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Neglect

• Bedsores or pressure ulcers

• Dehydration or malnutrition

• Sudden weight loss

• Unsanitary living conditions

• Poor hygiene

• Frequent infections or illnesses

Physical Abuse

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns

• Restraint marks on wrists or ankles

• Untreated injuries

• Withdrawal or fearfulness

• Damaged or missing clothing

Emotional & Psychological Abuse

• Sudden depression or anxiety

• Social withdrawal or isolation

• Emotional outbursts or crying

• Self-destructive behaviors

• Fear of certain caregivers

• New repetitive behaviors (e.g., rocking, thumb-sucking)

Sexual Abuse

• Injuries around breasts or genitals

• STDs or unexplained infections

• Bloodied undergarments or bedding

• Difficulty sitting or walking

Financial Abuse

• Unexplained withdrawals or charges

• Changes to bank accounts or beneficiaries

• Requests for new credit/debit cards

• Sudden financial confusion or distress

If you even suspect any sort of abuse or neglect, taking immediate legal action is critical. Keeping your loved one safe and protected is paramount to our team.