How to Know If Your Elderly Loved One Is Being Abused

The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that by the year 2050, 20% of America's population will be over the age of 65. Statistics from 2010 show that there were 5.8 million seniors that were over the age of 85. In 2050, this number is predicted to skyrocket to 19 million.

America will see a rise in the development of long-term senior care facilities. These facilities are kept in check by state and federal regulations, but not everyone will play by the rules.

According to home care company Naples FL experts, abuse isn't always physical. Be on the lookout for the following signs of abuse in your elderly loved one.

Bedsores (Decubitus Ulcers)

Bed sores commonly develop on the backside and/or heels from unrelieved pressure. If the senior cannot move them, the nurse or caregiver must reposition the patient. If the nurse or caregiver does not do this, it's considered neglect.

Falls

Falls occur frequently and can be very dangerous. Of the 1.6 million nursing home residents, approximately half of them fall annually. Of those, 1 in 3 will fall two or more times a year.

1 in 10 elderly patients that fall will have a serious injury, and approximately 65,000 seniors will be affected by hip fractures from falls every year. All facilities are required to assess each patient's fall risk and have plans in place to prevent falls.

Unexplained Bruises/Fractures

Check your loved one for unexplained bumps, bruises, and fractures. This can indicate abuse and neglect, particularly in those who are nonverbal, like Alzheimer's and dementia patients. If a bed-bound, non-ambulatory patient has a fracture, this could be a sign of either physical assault or an attempt to conceal dropping the senior.

Medication Errors

Nursing homes profit greatly off of in-house pharmacies. Instead of residents being able to fill their prescriptions at their preferred pharmacy, it must be done in the nursing home pharmacy. Sadly the correct names for medications and dosages are not always transferred with the residents. For obvious reasons, this can cause serious injury.

Home care assistance Naples can be a safer option for your loved one, as long as they follow state and federal regulations when it comes to taking care of seniors and helping them to age in place. This option will also allow you to keep a check on the caregiver to prevent elder abuse. Be on the lookout for the following signs of neglect and abuse when visiting your elderly loved one at their home or coming back after work.