Understanding the Different Types of Nursing Home Abuse

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is never an easy decision. You do it because you want them to have professional care, safety, and a supportive environment. But what happens when that trust is broken? Sadly, nursing home abuse is a harsh reality for many families. If you’ve noticed unsettling changes in your loved one or suspect something is wrong, it’s important to recognize the signs and understand the different forms abuse can take. Knowledge is your first step toward protecting someone you care about.

Types of Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse doesn’t always look like physical harm. It can take many forms, and some are more hidden than others. Below are the primary categories to keep in mind, along with examples of what they can look like.

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse happens when someone intentionally inflicts harm or uses force on a resident. It’s the form of abuse most people think about, but it’s not always as obvious as black-and-blue marks.

Examples of Physical Abuse Include:

• Hitting, slapping, or kicking
• Unnecessary restraint, like tying someone to a bed or wheelchair
• Force-feeding or improperly handling someone during daily activities (like transferring them from bed to chair)

What to Watch For:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
• Broken bones or frequent falls
• Signs of fear or flinching when a specific staff member is near

2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Words can wound just as much as physical actions. Emotional abuse involves inflicting mental pain, fear, or distress through words or behaviors. This kind of mistreatment often erodes a resident’s dignity and self-esteem over time.

Examples of Emotional Abuse Include:

• Yelling, threatening, or insulting a resident
• Ignoring their needs or isolating them from others (like refusing to allow them access to visitors)
• Mocking or humiliating them in front of others

What to Watch For:

• Mood changes like depression, anxiety, or withdrawal
• Nervousness around staff members
• Sudden loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy

3. Financial Abuse

Financial abuse—or exploitation—occurs when someone takes advantage of a resident’s money or assets for their own personal gain. This kind of abuse can go undetected for months or even years, especially if the resident is unable to manage their own finances.

Examples of Financial Abuse Include:

• Forging signatures on checks or legal documents
• Using a resident’s credit cards without permission
• Pressuring them into signing over property or money
• Overcharging for nursing home services or billing for services never provided

What to Watch For:

• Unexplained withdrawals or significant bank account changes
• Missing belongings, jewelry, or cash
• Bills or financial documents that don’t match your expectations

4. Neglect

Neglect happens when a nursing home fails to meet a resident’s basic needs. This might involve inadequate food, shelter, hygiene, or medical care. While neglect isn’t always intentional, it’s still a form of abuse that puts residents in serious harm.

Examples of Neglect Include:

• Failing to provide enough food or water
• Not assisting with personal hygiene, such as bathing or changing soiled clothes
• Ignoring medical needs, like medications or physical therapy
• Leaving residents in beds or wheelchairs for long periods, leading to bedsores

What to Watch For:

• Dehydration or malnourishment
• Poor personal hygiene (e.g., dirty clothes, unbrushed hair)
• Bedsores or infections that could have been prevented
• Frequent illnesses or hospitalizations

5. Sexual Abuse

It’s devastating to think about, but sexual abuse does happen in nursing homes. This occurs when a resident is forced into non-consensual sexual activities, often taking advantage of their mental or physical state.

Examples of Sexual Abuse Include:

• Unwanted touching or sexual advances
• Forcing a resident to view explicit material or engage in inappropriate activities
• Rape or attempted assault

What to Watch For:

• Unexplained bruising in sensitive areas
• Bloodstains on clothing or bedding
• Sudden fearfulness or withdrawal from physical touch

6. Abandonment

While not as frequently discussed, abandonment occurs when a caregiver deserts a resident who depends on them for care. This can leave residents in dangerous situations, often without access to food, water, or medical help.

Examples of Abandonment Include:

• Deserting a resident in a public place (e.g., a hospital or busy street)
• Leaving them without a caregiver or any way to call for help
• Failing to inform family members of significant issues

What to Watch For:

• A neglected appearance upon visits
• Complaints from the resident about long periods alone
• Missing staff when immediate care is needed

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

When it comes to nursing home abuse, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s better to investigate than to regret inaction later. Here are some steps you can take if you suspect abuse:

1. Document Your Observations: Keep a written record of signs you’ve noticed, including dates and photos if possible. This evidence can be invaluable later.
2. Speak With Nursing Home Management: Address your concerns with the management and request a clear explanation. Sometimes, issues may be the result of understaffing rather than abuse—but this doesn’t make them acceptable.
3. Contact Authorities or Advocacy Groups: Report suspected abuse to your state’s Adult Protective Services (APS) or the local ombudsman program. These organizations are trained to handle elder abuse cases.
4. Seek Legal Guidance: An experienced attorney can help investigate your claims, determine liability, and take action against the nursing home if necessary. Legal professionals will also help you and your family decide the best way to proceed to protect your loved one.

Asheville Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys

If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing any form of abuse in a nursing home, it is crucial to take action immediately. At Hensley Cloninger & Greer, P.C., we are dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home residents in Asheville, NC. Our experienced legal team can help you navigate the complexities of elder abuse cases and ensure that your loved one receives the justice they deserve. Contact us today at (828) 383-8414 to learn more about how we can assist you in safeguarding your loved one's well-being.