When a loved one is in a nursing home, you trust the staff to provide care. But abuse and neglect can happen. Understanding the difference is key to identifying problems and protecting your loved ones.
What is nursing home abuse?
Abuse occurs when a staff member intentionally harms a resident. This harm can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. Physical abuse includes hitting or restraining a resident. Emotional abuse involves belittling or isolating someone. Sexual abuse includes unwanted contact, while financial abuse is when staff exploit a resident’s finances.
What is nursing home neglect?
Neglect happens when staff fail to provide proper care. This may include failing to provide food, water, medication, or assistance with hygiene and mobility. Neglect can result from understaffing or poor training, and it puts the resident’s health at risk.
How can you tell the difference?
The main difference is intent. Abuse is intentional harm, while neglect is a failure to provide adequate care. Both are harmful, but abuse is a conscious act, while neglect often arises from systemic issues like understaffing.
How to protect your loved one
Stay involved in your loved one’s care. Visit often, ask questions, and watch for signs of trouble. Unexplained bruises, weight loss, poor hygiene, or emotional withdrawal may indicate abuse or neglect. Speak up if you notice anything concerning.
You can ensure your loved one gets the care they need by staying alert and informed.
