Washington DC
Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

You know your loved one best. If something feels off, pay attention. Abuse and neglect take several forms, each with its own warning signs.

Physical Abuse

This is often what people first think of. It involves any use of physical force that results in bodily injury, pain, or impairment.

• Unexplained bruises, welts, cuts, or burns
• Sprains, dislocations, or broken bones
• Marks from restraints on wrists or ankles
• Broken eyeglasses or frames
• Sudden changes in behavior around certain staff members

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

This type of abuse inflicts mental pain, anguish, or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts. It’s insidious and is often just as damaging as physical harm.

• Withdrawal, depression, or unusual fearfulness
• Agitation or rocking behavior
• Being emotionally upset or agitated
• Uncommunicative or non-responsive periods
• Staff yelling, insulting, or threatening the resident
• Isolation from others

Neglect

Neglect is the failure of caregivers to fulfill their obligations to provide necessary care. This is sometimes intentional or unintentional, but the result is harm or risk of harm to the resident.

• Poor hygiene, unkempt appearance, dirty clothes or bedding
• Bedsores (pressure ulcers)
• Dehydration or malnutrition, significant weight loss
• Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions
• Untreated medical conditions
• Lack of necessary aids like glasses, hearing aids, or walkers

Financial Exploitation

This involves the illegal or improper use of a resident’s funds, property, or assets. It often targets vulnerable seniors who may not fully grasp their financial situation.

• Sudden changes in bank accounts or banking practices
• Unexplained withdrawals or transfers
• Missing personal property or cash
• Changes to wills, power of attorney, or titles
• Unpaid bills despite adequate funds
• New “best friends” who seem overly interested in finances

Sexual Abuse

Any non-consensual sexual contact constitutes sexual abuse. This is a particularly heinous violation of trust and dignity.

• Bruises around breasts or genital area
• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding
• Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
• Sexually transmitted diseases or infections
• Sudden difficulty walking or sitting
• Withdrawal or fear of physical contact

Seeing any of these signs warrants immediate attention. Don’t dismiss your observations or your loved one’s complaints.