How to Prevent Nursing Home Abuse
As our population continues to age, the care and support of our elders becomes even more important. Nursing home facilities should be havens of safety where seniors are treated with respect and dignity. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse remains a very large concern throughout the country, particularly in Florida. Nursing home abuse is a problem that is very complicated, and it is also very well hidden. Still, there are ways you can help prevent it from occurring to a loved one within one of these facilities. Below, our Tampa nursing home abuse attorney outlines what those are.
Stay Engaged with Your Loved One
One of the best ways to prevent nursing home abuse is to maintain open communication and visit your loved one regularly. Being involved in your loved one’s care can discourage potential abusers and reassure your loved one. If there are meetings regarding your loved one’s care, participate in them and discuss your loved one’s preferences and needs. Showing that you are very attentive will make it clear to nursing home staff members and administrators that neglect and abuse will not be overlooked.
Look for Signs of Abuse
When trying to prevent abuse, knowledge and vigilance are critical. First, educate yourself about the different types of abuse. Emotional abuse is the most common form of nursing home abuse, but physical, financial, and sexual abuse also occur in nursing homes. Neglect and abandonment are also types of nursing home abuse. Each type of abuse has its own warning signs and risk factors, so it is important to be able to recognize the signs.
Being vigilant also means knowing the signs of the different types of abuse. These can include sudden changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, withdrawal from social activities, and poor hygiene. Follow your instincts and always raise concerns with nursing home staff members to get the answers you need.
Form Relationships with Nursing Home Staff Members
It is important to build relationships with the staff members who are responsible for your loved one’s care. Forming positive relationships can help you make sure your loved one is receiving the attentive and personalized care they deserve. Communicate with staff members in the nursing home about any specific needs or preferences your loved one may have.
Report Suspected Abuse
If, after speaking to nursing home staff members and your loved one, you believe abuse is happening, it is important to report it. You can report it to the Florida Department of Health (DOH) as soon as possible. The DOH does not accept reports of abuse over the phone so you must do this online.
Contact Our Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Tampa
Although there are ways to prevent nursing home abuse, it is not always possible. At Kohn Law, our Tampa nursing home abuse attorney can provide the legal advice you need and help you stop further harm to your loved one. Call us now at 813-428-8504 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get more information.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0400/0400.html
