Nursing home neglect lawyers know that cases of neglect can be just as damaging to the physical and mental health of the elderly as cases of abuse. Neglect is indeed a form of abuse, a crime of omission; failing to provide proper and necessary care is as serious as physical or emotional abuse.

It is important to keep an eye on your elderly loved ones and look out for the indicators of Neglect and report it right away. According to the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, it is important to remember that some of the signs indicate a lifestyle and should be viewed as a whole and prompt you to look for patterns that suggest a problem.

Physical Signs

Physically, you will notice the elder’s health starting to decline, especially in skin rashes, bedsores, infections, or unattended fractures. Dehydration, lack of energy and mental confusion are also signs if abnormal for the senior. Other physical signs are poor hygiene soiled clothes, lice, odors, or presence of urine or feces. If things seem out of place it may be an indicator of neglect, for example, the senior not being properly dressed for the weather or the absence of dentures, glasses, hearing aids, wheelchairs or walkers.

Environmental Signs

Environmental signs are often the most obvious indicators of neglect because the physical signs can often be explained by other causes. If the senior’s living conditions are inadequate, look for the other signs that may indicate neglect. These conditions include lack of basic necessities such as food, water and heat, insect or animal infestation, outdated or empty prescriptions, or a general lack of cleanliness.

Behavioral Signs

If the caregiver is actively neglecting the elder, you will often observe the caregiver becoming increasingly angry, frustrated and critical of outside help. They will also lack the skills and knowledge to care for an elderly or disabled adult.

You will start to notice the behavior of the victim to change as well. Depression, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, confusion and disorientation resulting from malnutrition, becoming emotionally withdrawn and fear towards the caregiver are often seen in victims of neglect.

New Jersey and Philadelphia Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers

If you or your loved one has suffered abuse or negligence you should contact nursing home Neglect Lawyers. The team at Messa & Associates is dedicated to earning justice and compensation for those injured by negligence in nursing homes. Call, toll-free, 1-800-MessaLaw, or submit a free online inquiry. If you would like immediate assistance, click the CHAT LIVE icon to the right. A representative is present to answer your questions.