Five Common Nursing Home Abuse Myths, Busted
Many people are not aware of just how common nursing home abuse is. Unfortunately, many residents are harmed by this type of neglect and abuse in Tampa, and throughout the country, every year. Even when people know that nursing home abuse does happen, they do not fully understand it. Below, our Tampa nursing home abuse attorney outlines five of the most common myths surrounding this behavior, and the truth behind them.
Abuse Only Occurs in Nursing Homes
Many people fear placing their loved one into a nursing home because these facilities have gained a reputation for abusing residents. It is true that abuse and neglect does occur in nursing homes, but these are sadly not the only places abuse can occur. Some elders need regular care and support, but they do not need the round-the-clock care provided in nursing homes. These senior citizens often receive nursing and support care in their own homes, where abuse also occurs.
Nursing Home Abuse is Easy to Spot
Nursing home residents do not always show signs of abuse. Even when they are the victim of physical abuse, loved ones may never even see so much as a bruise on their loved one. Contrary to what is shown in television shows and movies, nursing home abuse is not easy to detect. Adding to the challenge of spotting nursing home abuse, residents are not always able or willing to come forward about abuse.
Perpetrators of Abuse are Usually Strangers to the Victim
It is hard to believe that anyone who has developed a close relationship with your loved one could ever hurt them. Sadly though, that is usually the case. Most nursing home abuse is perpetrated by caregivers and sometimes, even family members. Abuse is much more likely to occur when the victim is already acquainted with the perpetrator.
Nursing Home Abuse is Always Violent
When many people think of nursing home abuse, they often think it is only physical. Unfortunately, there are many different types of abuse that are not physical. Emotional and financial abuse are also common forms of wrongdoing that occur in nursing homes, as is neglect and abandonment. While these types of abuse are not physical, they can still cause seniors significant harm.
Nursing Home Abuse Only Happens to Other People
As with so many other things in life, it is easy to assume that nursing home abuse will never happen to your family. Sadly, nursing home abuse is very common and there is a good chance that it can happen to someone you care about.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Tampa Can Assist with Your Case
If you believe your loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect, you need sound legal advice. At Kohn Law, our Tampa nursing home abuse attorney can determine if abuse is occurring and will help your family make it right. Call us now at 813-428-8504 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0400/0400.html
