The increase in nursing home abuse is an alarming trend that faces our long term care consumers. Unfortunately, at some point in our lives we all will possibly be affected by this trend; whether it be a loved one or a friend. However, if we are more educated on the signs and symptoms of abuse we can potentially prevent it from ever happening to our loved ones.
What is nursing home abuse, you ask? It is the physical, sexual or emotional abuse of an elderly person usually one who is disabled or frail. The physical signs and symptoms of abuse range from the not so obvious broken bones to unexplained bruises, bed sores to the emotional signs of being humiliated or intimidated by the employees of the facility. If any of theses symptoms are spotted or suspected on your loved one it needs to be immediately brought to the attention of the administrator. It is best to further investigate any suspicious signs or symptoms; it’s better to be safe than sorry, as our loved ones rely on us to be their advocate. We must fight for them!
Additionally, Florida Statues Chapter 400 states that our nursing homes must ensure safe, adequate and appropriate care, treatment and health of persons in such facilities. This is a written law that must be adhered to and if not the perpetrators should be brought to justice. As an administrator I will be vigilant and enforce this law in my facility and I hope to help curb this alarming trend of abuse.
