Many families in Illinois and across the nation rely on care facilities to provide their aging or ill loved ones with the necessary treatment and support. Unfortunately, issues such as neglect and abuse continue to be a major concern at such facilities and such negligence could prove somewhat difficult to detect at times. Those who entrust the care of a family member to such a facility may find it beneficial to understand how to spot the possible signs of nursing home neglect and the next steps to take should a loved one be subjected to such treatment.
Experts indicate that there are a variety of potential warning signs that could suggest the presence of abuse or neglect. One of the most common indicators of such treatment could involve the sudden onset of unexplainable injuries such as bruising or scratches. Those who fail to receive a certain standard of care may also be more susceptible to suffering from lack of nutrition or exhibiting poor personal hygiene.
Patients who are left unattended for extended periods may also be at greater risk of developing bed sores. In addition to the possible physical detriment of such behavior, neglect or abuse can also pose a significant threat to a person’s mental well-being. Studies suggest that such negligence could cause many patients to begin acting out or exhibiting a fear of being left alone.
While nursing home neglect can have a severe impact on a person’s life, those who feel that a loved one is being subjected to such treatment might not know how best to approach the situation. Fortunately, there are attorneys who can evaluate the circumstances a person in Illinois is facing and provide guidance on all his or her available legal avenues. An attorney can help a client better prepare to safeguard his or her well-being or the well-being of a loved one and if necessary, assist in pursuing the restitution deserved through the proper channels.
