According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), roughly 10% of Americans over 60 have experienced some type of elder abuse. Elder abuse is a deeply disturbing issue that unfortunately occurs in nursing homes across New Jersey. Our firm, Levinson Axelrod, is passionate about advocating for the rights and safety of our grandparents and elders. Elder abuse can take many forms, and the signs are often quite subtle. As New Jersey elder abuse lawyers, we have, however, noticed some red flags to look out for, which we will share. 

What Does Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes Look Like?

Unfortunately, elder abuse in nursing homes looks far too common. Consider these telling statistics from the World Health Organization and the NCOA:

• About 50% of people with dementia experience neglect or abuse. Abuse also occurs more often in adults with disabilities.
• Elder abuse survivors experience more mental health problems like social withdrawal and depression, which results in more hospitalizations and reduced life expectancy.
• One in six people over 60 encountered some type of age-based abuse in public in the last 12 months.
• Research based on phone calls received on an elder abuse hotline indicate that, sadly, about half of the perpetrators of elder abuse are family members of the victim.
• Rates of abuse are higher in long-term care facilities and nursing homes. Two out of three elder care facility workers report that they committed abuse in the last 12 months.

Now that you understand the prevalence of this type of abuse, let’s learn how to stop it. Elder abuse in nursing homes manifests in various ways. Here are the different types of nursing homes and some common warning signs:

Signs of Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes

Physical abuse involves the use of physical force resulting in pain, injury, or impairment. Some signs of physical abuse include:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
• Broken bones or fractures
• Restraining marks on wrists or ankles
• Unexplained weight loss or malnutrition
• Complaints of pain or discomfort
• Fear or unease around specific staff members

Signs of Emotional Abuse in Nursing Homes

Emotional abuse is just as damaging as physical abuse, if not more so, but the signs are not as apparent. Some things to look for include:

• Withdrawal and isolation
• Changes in behavior or personality
• Depression or anxiety
• Fear of speaking openly or freely
• Unexplained or sudden mood swings
• Belittling, threatening, or demeaning language by staff members

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes

Sexual abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact with a New Jersey nursing home resident. Elder sexual abuse survivors in nursing homes may exhibit:

• Unexplained bruises or injuries to the genitals
• Unexplained sexually transmitted infections
• Torn or bloody undergarments
• Fear or anxiety related to specific staff members
• Changes in behavior or mood, especially when alone with a particular person

Signs of Financial Abuse in Nursing Homes

Every year, roughly $28 billion are stolen from older Americans, according to the AARP. Financial abuse is the unauthorized use or exploitation of an older person’s money or assets. Signs of financial abuse include:

• Sudden and unexplained changes in the person's financial situation, bank, or accounts
• Missing belongings or funds
• Forged signatures on checks or other financial documents
• Unexplained or unauthorized changes to wills or other legal documents
• The caregiver showing excessive interest in the elder's money or assets

Signs of Neglect in Nursing Homes

Neglect occurs when a caregiver doesn’t provide the care and attention a nursing home resident need. Neglect red flags include:

• Poor personal hygiene, including dirty clothes or bedsores
• Untreated medical conditions
• Rapid weight loss or signs of malnutrition
• Dehydration or lack of access to water
• Unsanitary living conditions

What To Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

Did you know just one in 24 cases of elder abuse gets reported to New Jersey authorities? Please take the time to contact the police to prevent others in the same nursing home or with the same caregiver from suffering as well. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of elder abuse in a New Jersey nursing home, take action immediately. Your grandparent or friend's safety and well-being must be a top priority. 

As New Jersey elder abuse attorneys, here's what we suggest you do if you suspect nursing home abuse:

• Document any signs or symptoms of abuse: Keep a detailed record of any signs or symptoms of abuse, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents or changes you have observed. Pictures of the abuse are also certainly helpful. 
• Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities: Contact the New Jersey Adult Protective Services or local law enforcement to report the suspected abuse. They are trained to handle such situations and can investigate the matter further.
• Seek medical attention: If your loved one has suffered physical injuries, seek medical attention immediately. A healthcare professional can assess their condition and provide necessary treatment.
• Talk to a knowledgeable New Jersey elder abuse lawyer: Contact our experienced and compassionate team at Levinson Axelrod to discuss your loved one’s situation as soon as possible. We handle lots of nursing home abuse cases and can provide excellent legal advice and representation.

Our team at Levinson Axelrod is dedicated to advocating for the rights of New Jersey’s vulnerable populations, including the elderly. We understand the difficult nature of these cases and the importance of holding the responsible accountable. 

Contact a New Jersey Elder Law Attorney Today

If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of elder abuse in a New Jersey nursing home, please take immediate action. Contact the reputable, caring New Jersey nursing home abuse lawyers at Levinson Axelrod now. Your elder family member deserves the same rights and fair treatment as anyone else. Let us help you navigate this legal process, get justice against an abusive predator, and demand the financial compensation that your loved one is legally entitled to. To set up a free case review and legal consultation, call us at 732-440-3089 or contact us online.