When a loved one is in a nursing home, you want to know they’re safe and getting the care they deserve. They may be unable to live independently, and a caring and helpful nursing home staff may be key to their health. But you may have noticed things that don’t seem right. You may suspect nursing home abuse is taking place.
If you believe your loved one may not be safe in their nursing home, you need to know how to identify nursing home abuse. Luckily, a lawyer can help. If you’re not sure how to recognize nursing home abuse, reach out for guidance to take care of your loved one.
Physical Signs of Abuse
If your loved one is suffering physically because of nursing home abuse, it may be visible (though sometimes it’s hidden). If a nursing home staff member is acting violently toward your loved one, they may have suffered physical injuries. For example, your loved one may have broken bones, bruises, or scratch marks on their body. While accidents can happen, trauma may be a sign of physical abuse.
Neglect may show up in physical ways, as well—for example, if your loved one is losing weight, unbathed, or left alone for long periods of time. If your loved one is unable to move from their bed, this could lead to pressure sores after lying in place for a long period of time. If you notice any of these physical signs, your lawyer can help you look into a lawsuit on your family member’s behalf.
Emotional Trauma
Nursing home abuse is more than physical. It can also include mental and psychological abuse that impacts your loved one’s quality of life.
For example, you may notice the nursing home resident acting differently. They may be withdrawn or fearful or may avoid certain nursing home staff members. If you notice any of these signs, you may need to speak to your family member about their treatment. If they feel unsafe in the nursing home, you have grounds to move them to a different location and may be able to seek compensation for their suffering.
How a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Can Help
When you’re aware of nursing home abuse, it can still be difficult to prove. That’s especially true if you haven’t witnessed the abuse firsthand. How do you prove it in court, in these cases?
Your nursing home abuse lawyer in Indiana may be key to getting compensation for your loved one. They can help you get in contact with agencies that help to stop elder abuse. They can help relocate your loved one to a safer place, and they can help you seek compensation for the suffering they experienced.
Speak with a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Indiana
Worried about the health and safety of a loved one in a nursing home? Your lawyer from Kooi Law can help. We have the tools you need to seek compensation for your family. That way, you can help your loved one if you identify nursing home abuse. If you suspect your loved one is suffering nursing home abuse or elder abuse, reach out for a free consultation with our Indianapolis legal team. Call 317-569-1335, or fill out the online contact form below.
