Nursing Home Red Flags: How to Spot and Address Them
Written by Daniel Ray, Life Insurance Expert |
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Fact Checked by
Lisamarie Monaco |
Editorial Disclosure
When finding the right nursing home for a loved one, it’s important to do your research and be aware of any red flags that may indicate a lack of quality care.
Several warning signs should not be ignored, from physical abuse to neglect to financial exploitation.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common red flags to be aware of and what you can do to address them.
Table of Contents
Signs of Physical Abuse
Deciding to go from home health care to a nursing home is a hard decision to make.
When making that decision, you want to believe that you are taking care of your loved ones.
Especially in a nursing home or senior care facility.
Hearing about a loved one being abused makes you furious.
Here are things you should pay attention to.
Here are some things to look out for if you sense abuse in a nursing home.
- Bruises, cuts, or other injuries that can’t be explained
- Unexplained changes in behavior, such as sudden agitation or withdrawal
- Fear or reluctance to be alone with certain staff members
- Restraints that are used excessively or without proper justification
Signs of Neglect
- Dirty or unkempt living conditions
- Unhygienic conditions, such as dirty bed linens or soiled clothing
- Lack of basic needs being met, such as food, water, and medications
- Sudden weight loss or malnourishment
Signs of Financial Exploitation
- Unexplained or unauthorized withdrawals from a bank account
- Changes in legal documents, such as a power of attorney or will
- Unusual activity on a credit report
- Missing personal belongings or valuables
How to Take Action
If you suspect abuse, neglect, mental disorders, or financial exploitation in a nursing home, take action quickly.
The first step is to report your concerns to the nursing home administrator and request an investigation.
If the nursing home is not responsive or if the situation is an emergency, you should contact Adult Protective Services or the police.
Conclusion
Choosing a nursing home for a loved one is a big decision, and it’s important to be aware of any red flags that may indicate a lack of quality care.
By being vigilant and taking action when necessary, you can help ensure that your loved one receives the best care and protection.
