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If you have parents in a nursing home, you probably worry. Will they get the care they need and deserve? Will they be happy? Will they be taken care of properly, without any hint of abuse? You can’t help but ask what should I watch for?
Things you should watch for every time you visit the nursing home:
Neglect. Some things to watch for include clean bed linens and whether your parent is kept clean and dressed each day in clean clothes. Try to notice if your parent seems more distant or irritable than normal. Do they appear to have the food and water they need? Also, check for bed sores, good hygiene, and infections.
Emotional Abuse. Keep an eye out for mood swings, anxiety, or any unusual behavior.
Physical Abuse. Is there an unexplained injury? Cuts or welts not previously there? Listen if your parent mentions being mistreated or if they are ever restrained.
Sexual Abuse. Do you learn of unexplained infections? Bruising? Do you notice stained underclothing?
What you can do to prevent or stop abuse:
- Visit more than once a month.
- Talk to the nurses and doctor on staff. Never be afraid to ask them questions even if it seems trivial.
- Keep a written record of all observances; this includes names and addresses of all those assisting the elder.
- Speak with the nursing home administrator if you have concerns.
- Find a Los Angeles malpractice attorney or attorney in your area to help you with the legal aspects.
Abuse in any form warrants help that shouldn’t wait. Get it through the cautions and ideas listed here.
