Mental Trauma to Nursing Home Residents

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Mental Trauma to Nursing Home Residents

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Many older adults who no longer are able or want to live on their own, trust nursing homes to provide medical care, mental stimulation, and physical activities in a safe environment. Finding a nursing home that meets an older adult’s needs can feel like a huge milestone, as transitioning into an extended care facility is not always an easy adjustment. While most nursing homes do provide a secure home for those who are in their care, there are sometimes attendees who, unfortunately, behave in ways that would be classified as mental abuse. 

With the strict social distancing guidelines due to the Coronavirus pandemic, nursing home abuse is even more dangerous because the staff at the nursing home have less direct interaction and contact with the family members who typically visit and check in on their loved ones. That said, it is still possible to check for signs of mental abuse even if you are not visiting your loved ones in person. 

Common Signs of Mental Abuse to Watch Out For

Mental abuse can cause trauma, regression, fear, and many other disturbing behaviors among the elderly population at the nursing home. Understanding the signs to watch and listen for can help you to identify if your loved one is possibly being mentally abused at the nursing home where they live. Some signs include but are not limited to:

1. Drastic change in behavior
2. Withdrawal
3. Depression
4. Confusion
5. Anger and frustration
6. Fear 
7. Neglect

Mental and emotional abuse is often linked to physical abuse and neglect. For example, leaving a patient alone for days at a time is harmful and devastating to the mental health of the nursing home residents. 

In order to help protect your loved ones from mental abuse in a nursing home, it is advisable to check in as often as possible. Even if you cannot be there in person, schedule a regular phone or video call to connect. During these calls, ask detailed questions about the treatment your loved one is receiving on a daily basis. Schedule a dedicated time to speak with their supervisor and caregivers as well. The more information you can obtain, the more informed you can be on the status of their care and health. 

Reach Out and Speak with a Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Right Away

If you have noticed that a loved one who is living in a nursing home has had a sudden and unexplainable change in behavior, and believe that this is the result of nursing home abuse, it is advisable to seek a legal consultation as soon as possible. Nursing home abuse is an unacceptable practice, and if you recognize it, you can help to put a stop to it. At Malman Law, we have worked with many families who suspect that a loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse, and we are dedicated to helping you navigate through this painful situation. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation. You can reach us at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online. We are here and ready to help.