Monitoring for signs of elder abuse
A study published in the current issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society emphasizes the need for friends, family members and social workers to be familiar with the signs of elder abuse. Many older adults who are reliant on a caregiver will not openly discuss physical abuse, neglect and exploitation. Monitoring and screening could uncover significantly more cases of elder abuse than are currently being reported.
>>INFORMATION: Signs of Elder Abuse
Researchers from Israel reviewed data involving 730 men and women 70 years old or older who were hospitalized. When directly asked, under 6% acknowledged that they suffered from physical assault, verbal abuse, neglect, financial exploitation or any other form of abuse. However, when nurses and social workers conducted more detailed interviews and physical exams, they found that 21% of those in the survey had evidence of elder abuse.
According to the study, researchers indicate that signs of elder abuse included:
- Suspicious Bruises
- Signs of Burns
- Angry or Indifferent Attitude by the Primary Caregiver
- Poor Hygiene
- Dehydration or Malnutrition
Unfortunately, elderly abuse is a common problem in nursing homes throughout the United States. Many residents exhibit signs of abuse or neglect which go un-noticed by friends and family members who rely on the nursing home to properly care for and treat their loved ones. In fact, many nursing home lawsuits uncover evidence that the facility actively covered up signs of abuse and neglect from the family.
ELDER ABUSE LAWSUITS
The Nursing Home Lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. investigate cases of elder abuse throughout the United States which occurs in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or long term care centers. If you suspect that a friend or family member suffered a serious physical injury as a result of abuse or neglect, request a free lawsuit evaluation.
