Emotional Abuse at a Nuring Home
Emotional abuse is any abuse that causes the resident emotional harm or anguish. Emotional abuse can be either verbal or nonverbal and though most of this abuse is perpetrated by nursing home staff, emotional abuse can also be inflicted by other residents. Emotional abuse is dangerous because of the lasting effects it can cause both psychologically and the decline it can cause in physical health.
Emotional abuse can be difficult to observe, and nursing home residents may not even recognize that the abuse is occurring. Often emotional abuse is accompanied by physical abuse and the resident will often suffer from depression, anxiety, sadness, and fear. Other signs of emotional abuse include:
- Withdrawal;
- Agitation;
- Excessive fear;
- Nervousness;
- Sudden changes in personality;
- Sudden unusual behaviors such as rocking, biting, and thumb-sucking;
- Refusal to interact with others.
As emotional abuse continues, serious health consequences can begin to occur. Continued stress can weaken the immune system, making a resident more susceptible to illness. Some physical indicators of emotional abuse include:
- Loss of appetite;
- Insomnia;
- Weight loss;
- Refusal to take medications;
- Infections and injuries.
What Constitutes Emotional Abuse?
Some types of emotional abuse are nonverbal or subtle, making them difficult to observe. Some types of emotional abuse may include:
- Intimidation and threats;
- Insulting and ridiculing a resident;
- Yelling;
- Threatening to withhold food or water;
- Preventing a resident from meeting for social events;
- Isolation;
- Ignoring a resident.
Risk Factors for Emotional Abuse
Nursing homes that are understaffed or do not provide proper training often have the most cases of abuse. When staff is overworked, frustration sets in and the possibility of abuse increases.
Certain characteristics put a resident at risk for emotional abuse while in a nursing home. Residents who require extra care, such as those with cognitive dysfunction or memory impairment, and those that are older and more vulnerable are more likely to suffer emotional abuse.
If you suspect that your loved one is suffering emotional abuse it is important to get them to safety and to contact authorities. You should also contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.
If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a long-term care facility, contact 844 See Mike, for a free consultation. We are a Chicago injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. 844 See Mike, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.
Submitted Comments
No Comments submitted yet. Sharing your story will help others!