The decision for an elderly loved one to enter into a nursing home is not one that is taken lightly. While discussing this option it is important to discuss the potential for abuse, you will also need to educate your loved one on signs to look for that can constitute abuse. If they know what to look for they will not only feel more empowered with their decision but will also be able to prevent the abuse from happening and voice their concerns. If there is suspicion of abuse or neglect you will need to contact a Philadelphia nursing home abuse attorney to discuss your options.
Nursing home residents’ basic rights
Your elderly loved one has rights when they reside in a nursing home. You should discuss these rights with them when they enter a nursing home and remind them every so often. This will help them feel secure and will also allow them to be aware of their surroundings. While this may not be possible in all cases due to physical or mental restrictions, it is still important to note. Their rights include:
- Privacy
- Necessary care
- Security of possessions
- Take part in groups
- Welcome and refuse visitors
- Dignity
- Communicate freely
- Review their care plans
- Be informed of changes in care
- Choice of physician
- Voice grievances without retaliation
- Freedom to make their own choices
- Freedom from abuse, neglect, and mistreatment
If these rights are not maintained, it can be a sign of potential abuse or general violations. You should contact a Philadelphia nursing home abuse attorney.
What should your elderly loved one look for?
You should educate your loved one on the different forms of abuse such as physical, emotional, medical, and sexual abuse. If they do see any odd behavior, instruct them to complain immediately and if possible to contact you. If a caretaker hits them or does not feed them it is imperative that this be reported. If they are excluded from group activities this is also a sign of abuse.
What can you do to prevent nursing home abuse?
As a family member, you may be the only person who can advocate for your elderly loved one. There are a few steps you can take to ensure your loved one is being cared for properly. First, you should listen to them. If they tell you that something doesn’t feel or look right with a caretaker or other staff, listen attentively and empathetically. If there was an incident, ask your loved one for more details.
You should then take the proper steps to intervene so the situation is addressed. You should also educate on the types of elder abuse and what signs to look for. You should also pay attention to how caretakers interact with your loved one and other residents in the facility to get a clear picture of the care that is being provided.
You should also make it a point to visit regularly. This not only allows you to look for changes in the care of your elderly relative but also shows staff that there is someone regularly checking up on the patient. Residents may be at a higher risk of abuse if staff notice that there are no visitors or that visits are few and far between. If you do see signs of abuse, report it immediately and contact a Philadelphia nursing home abuse attorney.
Call a Philadelphia nursing home abuse attorney
Placing your loved one in a nursing home facility is a big decision and you trust that they will be taken care of. If they are being abused or neglected you should contact Kwartler Manus LLC at (267) 457-5570 to schedule a consultation with a Philadelphia nursing home abuse attorney.