Nursing homes are supposed to safeguard your elderly loved ones and enforce policies to prevent abuse and neglect. However, understaffing and mismanagement enable administrators and healthcare workers to fail in their roles. Consulting an attorney gives you more details on what to do if you suspect nursing home abuse in Joliet.
Pay Attention to Caregivers
One sign of nursing home abuse In Joliet is the fearfulness of caregivers and nursing home staff. Note their reactions if your elderly loved one’s demeanor changes dramatically in the presence of particular workers.
Your loved one may try to hide these reactions, but if they’ve been abused repeatedly by a nursing home worker, they will react when caught off guard. Under the circumstances, inquire about why they reacted and what happened.
Note Any Signs of Injuries
Bruises, bedsores, and lacerations are common injuries sustained because of nursing home abuse. If your loved one falls unexpectedly, find out why. Don’t just take the administrator’s word for it. Talk to your loved one and find out if something is amiss. Abusive healthcare workers will lie to save their jobs, and unethical administrators will try to protect their own.
Give Your Loved One a Safe Space to Talk
When visiting your loved one, secure the door and get them to speak to you quietly. Workers will linger around their doors when someone is being abused, trying to eavesdrop. They may try to retaliate against your loved one if they are reported. If your loved one tells you they have been abused, take steps to get them somewhere safe and take legal action.
Nursing home abuse is a heinous crime that often goes unnoticed or unchecked. Unethical administrators won’t enforce rules and protect residents as they should. Contact Block, Klukas, Manzella & Shell, P.C. today.
