One of the hardest things you may ever have to face is placing your senior loved one in a nursing home. It can be hard to trust others with the care your aged family member’s needs, especially when diagnosed with dementia due to aging or conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
A dementia diagnosis usually means that someone suffers from impaired memory, lack of judgment and poor communication skills. When these and other dementia effects are present, it can be hard to stay informed about what is happening with your loved one in a nursing home.
Are the signs of abuse different in those with dementia?
In general, elder physical abuse signs do not differ much when a senior has dementia. However, in senior residents with dementia, it is even more crucial to look carefully for signs of physical abuse. Often, dementia patients do not remember things well, leaving it up to you to remain observant.
It is wise to look for unexplained:
- Physical injuries like burns and pressure marks (from rough handling or restraints) and broken bones
- Tension between a care provider or nurse and your senior family member
- Depression or self-isolation
- Issues with medicines like too many pills left at the end of a prescription or running out of meds too early
- Marks or bruising near private areas (a sign of sexual abuse)
As emphasized in the list above, if the nursing home staff cannot adequately explain your loved one’s injuries, it may be time for a deeper look.
If you suspect or find evidence of physical abuse, take immediate steps to relocate your family member. You can also hold the responsible parties to account for their conduct in a legal setting. Learning more about nursing home abuse and Georgia injury laws can help you find a remedy for the suffering your loved one endured.
