Some people, for whatever reason, do not have the resources to take care of their elderly parent or family members. In these cases, the only option is a skilled nursing, senior living or nursing home facility. Of course, many of these facilities offer a safe and secure environment, but there is always the risk of choosing one that does not. This is why it is crucial to conduct extensive research on all accessible senior facilities. If you fail to heed this advice, you could very well put your family member in a dangerous situation. Below, you will discover several tips on how to protect seniors from abuse and neglect.
Learning The Warning Signs
One of the first things you should do is familiarize yourself with the warning signs of elderly abuse. Just knowing these signs will help you recognize abuse before it escalates into a major issue or potentially death. These warning signs can include anything from aggressive behavior from a caregiver to poor nutrition and/or dehydration.
Other signs to look for include unexplained weight loss, bruising and uncharacteristic changes in your parent’s personality and behavior. Another sign of abuse is bedsores, which can be caused by improper nutrition and reposition in a bed or wheelchair.
Also, note the surroundings of the facility and the caregivers’ attitude and behavior. Overworked caregivers are more likely to ignore their patients than those who have plenty of assistance.
Research The Facility
On the outside, the facility might look magnificent. On the inside, the story could be completely different. With this in mind, you need to look beneath the surface to determine whether or not the facility is safe for your loved one. Before enrolling your family member into a Florida nursing home, it is absolutely pertinent to do a lot of research. Take the time to research the facility and the company that runs it. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, you should go elsewhere! Do not choose a nursing home that has been accused of abusive behavior in the past.
Hiring An Attorney
Believe it or not, an attorney can be immensely beneficial. An attorney will be able to help you uncover deep, dark secrets about the nursing homes and assisted living facilities in your area. With their assistance, you’ll have a much better chance of finding the best nursing home for your loved one. At the same time, Florida Assisted Living Abuse Attorneys can help you fight against abuse. If your loved one is abused in a nursing home, an attorney will be able to help you take action and fight back!
Frequently Follow Up
While you’re at it, you’ll want to follow up with the facility frequently. The staff at the facility will hesitate to abuse your loved one if they know that you visit the facility regularly. At the same time, regular visits will help you pinpoint the signs of potential abuse. By visiting the facility regularly, you’ll be able to help keep your loved one safe and sound. Also, be sure to chat with the staff members while you’re there. Be on the lookout for anyone, who behaves awkwardly. Do not hesitate to report suspicious behavior to the higher-ups.
