This month we are going to share an article that is provided by Nursing Home Abuse.Org
It is an honor our blog get notice by health professionals and different organizations, we are permitted to post this link by Jessica -Outreach Director from Nursing Home Abuse.Org.
Here is the external link for this article , it is a very detailed and informative read
I'm going to give a brief info on this article.
Nursing home abuse is common in the United States. Older adults get hurt, are neglected, and even die in the same facilities where they should be receiving proper care.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) found that nursing home abuse:
Increases the chances of death by 300%
Triples the chances of hospitalization
Leads to future medical problems and disabilities
Increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues
Nursing home abuse can be physical, mental, emotional, and sexual. The NCOA states that nursing home abuse includes:
Physical abuse, which can be made apparent by bruises or unexplained falls
Sexual abuse, including any sexual activity without consent
Neglect, indicated by matted hair, dirty bedding, and so on
Emotional abuse, such as verbal threats and harassment
Financial exploitation, such as forged financial documents or missing personal belongings
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Physical abuse - broken bones, unexplained injuries, refusal of visitors, improper medication and treatment
Emotional abuse - increased nightmares, panic attacks, fear of the caregiver, withdrawal from social interactions
Neglect - poor hygiene, dehydration, lack or loss of mobility, malnutrition and weight loss
Sexual abuse - unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding, bruises around the inner thigh, breasts, or genital areas
Financial exploitation - missing items, sudden changes in financial situation, significant fund withdrawals
How can you prevent nursing home abuse?
Nursing home abuse prevention is complex. It requires the involvement of different parties, including residents, nursing staff, and the government. There are many ways to proactively prevent abuse, including the following:
Individuals
Understand the different forms of abuse that can occur in a care facility
Learn nursing home policies, services, and prohibitions
Express concerns about abuse to staff members, administrators, social workers, doctors, and nursing directors
Inform a loved one that you believe abuse is taking place
Document evidence
Reach out to state survey agencies or a long-term care ombudsman
Friends and Relatives
Review different care facilities and choose a reputable one
Visit long-term care facilities to ascertain their conditions
Visit and check in on your loved one often
Take any complaints from your loved one seriously
Notify relevant authorities about any abuse
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