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Your loved one may not be able to explain their nursing home injuries

On Behalf of | Mar 31, 2021 | Nursing Home Neglect |

The elderly are a particularly vulnerable group for many reasons, from frailty to dependency, and that’s why nursing home issues are such a serious problem. When abused or neglected by caregivers, they may have no way to protect themselves or prevent injuries. Some of these injuries can be very serious. 

What’s more, a loved one who gets injured in a nursing home may not be able to explain what happened. Say you go visit your parent twice a week. If you come in one day and they have unexplained bruises and lacerations, they may not recall how they got them. It could have been two or three days since it happened. Their memory just isn’t what it used to be, and that makes them even more vulnerable to abuse.

Memory issues frequently affect elderly abuse victims

Memory issues impact about four out of every 10 people who are at least 65 years old. Some of them will also develop conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s when they grow older, which can make these issues even more pronounced. 

Even if someone doesn’t forget everything that happened, they may forget the details. They could know that someone hurt them and feel sad or afraid, but have no idea which staff member it was. They may understand that something is wrong but become frustrated that they can’t express it to you. 

Watching out for your loved one’s best interests

As a family member, you need to look out for your loved one’s best interests. If they have been injured, this may mean looking into all potential options to hold the nursing home accountable for its actions or neglect.