Physical Injuries that Might Indicate Nursing Home Abuse

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Physical Injuries that Might Indicate Nursing Home Abuse

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

If you have a loved one in a nursing home, you might worry that they will suffer some form of abuse or suspect abuse but aren’t sure what the signs are. Specific physical injuries can help you determine if your loved one is a nursing home abuse victim.

Nursing home abuse is a severe issue in the U.S. today. With an aging baby boomer population and already strained employees, it may only get worse. As of 2019, there were approximately 1.5 million older adults living in nursing homes across America. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), elder abuse occurs most often in institutions that provide care to older adults, such as nursing homes, care homes, assisted living, and long-term facilities. As of 2019, the WHO reported that two in three staff members (64 percent of study participants) had committed some form of abuse in the role of a caregiver to the elderly. If you suspect your aging family member is a victim, don’t hesitate to reach out to a seasoned Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer for help.

What Physical Injuries Might Indicate Nursing Home Abuse?

Observing your loved one frequently in the nursing home is an essential part of caring for their health and well-being. You want to be on the lookout for any signs that they are being victimized. One of the most noticeable signs is physical injuries. The following physical injuries might indicate that your family member is a victim of nursing home abuse:

1. Injuries that are unexplained or recurring 
2. Injuries in various stages of healing
3. Injuries your loved one may try to hide
4. Signs of physical restraint such as bruises and abrasions
5. Broken and fractured bones
6. Bruises, burns, and welts on the skin
7. Cuts, lacerations, and skin tears
8. Head and dental injuries

While they aren’t necessarily injuries, unexplained weight loss, illnesses, infections, and bedsores can also be signs of abuse and neglect.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?

Suppose you notice any of these physical injuries or any other signs of abuse. In that case, it’s essential to act promptly and take the following steps.

1. In cases of emergency, always call 911 first
2. Call the Eldercare Locator hotline at 1-800-677-1116.
3. Reach out to a local ombudsman
4. Seek advice from a doctor familiar with your family member
5. Call a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney
6. File a complaint with the nursing home

This process is never simple, and it can be intimidating, especially if you are not certain that abuse occurred. The right attorney can help identify abuse and guide you through the next steps to protect your loved one’s safety and rights. 

You Can Rely On a Compassionate Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer 

If you suspect that someone you love is the victim of nursing home abuse, pay careful attention to any physical or other signs of abuse. If you find something that further confirms your suspicions, it’s time to act. Reach out to the skilled nursing home abuse attorneys at Malman Law as soon as possible. They can investigate the abuse and help you find a path forward. You and your loved one could be entitled to compensation. Get your claim started today with a no-obligation consultation. Call (312) 629-0099 or use our convenient online contact form.