You probably understand how physical abuse can harm your elderly loved one, but what about emotional or psychological abuse? Sometimes this type of abuse can cause as much or more harm than physical mistreatment.
For example, it can cause heightened anxiety, fear, depression, withdrawal and many other mental effects in the abused individual. Although all forms of elder abuse are unlawful, it still happens in many Georgia nursing homes.
What are some signs of emotional abuse?
Unfortunately, emotional abuse is hard to recognize, especially since it leaves no visible marks. Most elderly people do not report psychological abuse because they are afraid or don’t want to cause their family any trouble. That means it may fall on loved ones to identify emotional abuse.
Here are five possible indicators:
- Unusual anxiety or fearfulness
- Appearing withdrawn and isolated
- Poor hygiene or self-care practices
- Little interest in engaging with others
- Not participating in once-loved activities
You always hope things will go well for your loved one in a nursing home. Still, watch over them carefully to spot signs of potential emotional (and physical) harm.
Who is responsible?
You want to blame the individual who harmed your family member, and you should, but the nursing home itself may be held liable in an abuse claim. After all, they hired the person who harmed your loved one. Nursing homes must allow only qualified employees to care for their elderly residents.
Often, taking your evidence of nursing home negligence to an experienced law firm can help you make sense of the circumstances. With guidance, you can identify all responsible parties and seek to remedy the matter through legal action. The compensation your family member obtains can help them move to a better, safer nursing home.
