Nursing home abuse involves intentional harm, while neglect is typically unintentional but still causes significant harm. Both forms of mistreatment can be equally damaging, and having a nursing home abuse attorney who understands their differences is essential in knowing how to address them.

What Constitutes Nursing Home Abuse?

Nursing home abuse occurs when staff or caregivers intentionally harm residents. This abuse can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse: Hitting, pushing, or using excessive force.
• Emotional abuse: Verbal threats, humiliation, or isolation.
• Sexual abuse: Any form of non-consensual sexual contact.
• Financial exploitation: Theft of money, possessions, or manipulation for financial gain. 

These actions are a gross violation of trust and can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars on the victim and their family.

What is Nursing Home Neglect?

Neglect, while not always intentional, can be just as harmful. Nursing home neglect happens when caregivers fail to provide the necessary care and attention, leading to adverse consequences for residents. Examples of neglect include:

• Failure to provide basic necessities: Not offering adequate food, water, or medical care.
• Poor hygiene: Allowing residents to remain in soiled clothing or bedding.
• Medication errors: Failing to administer medication correctly or on time.
• Lack of supervision: Leaving vulnerable residents unattended, which can lead to falls or other injuries. 

Neglect can result in severe consequences, such as infections, malnutrition, bedsores, or broken bones from falls.