5 Signs Of Abuse And Neglect In The Elderly

As we grow older, we want to know that we will be well looked after, and the same applies to our loved ones.

However, neglect of elders happens all too often, with one survey finding that abuse was identified in 91 out of 92 care homes, most commonly relating to forms of neglect.

The most vulnerable people in society regularly fall victim to medical mistakes and can be harmed indirectly due to substandard care at residential care homes and nursing homes. 

Moreover, care homes are often stretched, exacerbated by a lack of carers, and abuse and neglect can occur. This can result in numerous types of claims made by individuals or their families on their behalf.

Signs of abuse and neglect in elders include, but are not limited to:

1. Falls
2. Unexplained weight loss 
3. Pressure sores
4. Sudden changes in behaviour 
5. Over-medication

1. Falls

While older people are more susceptible to falls, they can also indicate insufficient safeguards and care planning.

Often, these injuries can be insignificant, such as minor lacerations or bumps on their skin.

However, falls can cause more serious injuries, such as bone fractures that require surgery, causing a significant amount of unnecessary pain, as the majority of falls can be prevented with proper supervision, equipment and care.

If you or your loved one has experienced a serious fall whilst in care that you suspect could have been prevented, it’s best to seek legal advice from a clinical negligence solicitor to find out the next steps.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss  

A sign of neglect in elders is unexplained weight loss.

Older people are at the highest risk of becoming undernourished for an array of reasons, from loneliness to other factors such as grief, which can impact their appetite. 

However, if your loved one appears to be losing weight from visit to visit, this could be a sign of neglect.

Other signs to look out for include pale skin as well as signs of dehydration. For instance, the person might be dizzy, constantly requesting water, have a dry mouth, or be inexplicably tired a lot of the time.

The issues of malnutrition and dehydration in care homes remain ongoing, so it’s crucial to keep a close eye if you suspect your elderly loved one isn’t receiving the care they need.

3. Pressure Sores

Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers, can be a sign of neglect.  Pressure ulcers can develop quickly and become a very serious problem, even life threatening in some circumstances.

Frequently, pressure ulcers develop due to medical negligence and can result in claims relating to inadequate training and equipment, inadequate assessments of a patient’s needs, and more. 

Are Most Pressure Sores Preventable?

In short, yes. With the right care, most pressure sores can be prevented in all but a few circumstances.

That said, if you believe that you or your loved one has suffered a pressure sore as a result of clinical negligence, you could be entitled to make a claim.

Get in touch with a member of our clinical negligence team to find out how we can assist you.

4. Sudden Changes In Behaviour 

A key sign of abuse is sudden changes in behaviour.

Some people take longer to adjust to residential care than others, especially if your loved one was previously very independent.

However, if you notice a sudden change in behaviour after a reasonable period of adjustment, this could be a cause for concern.

Emotional Abuse Effects

Emotional abuse can result in an array of effects, including:

• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Feelings of despair.
• Withdrawal from hobbies and daily activities.
• Reduced self-esteem.
• Social withdrawal and loneliness.

It’s key to remember that you know your loved one best. If you believe that something feels “off” about their behaviour, consider looking into the possibility that they’re a victim of mistreatment.

5. Over-Medication

Lastly, a sign of abuse and neglect is over-medication. 

It’s quite common for elderly patients to be given certain medications to ensure they remain calm and quiet in residential care facilities.

However, often, their unrest can be rectified by more stimulation, better care, and more interaction.

If an error is made concerning medication, making a claim to receive compensation could be possible.

How We Can Help

If you suspect sub-standard medical treatment towards an elderly loved one, there may be grounds to make a claim.

At Harding Evans, our experienced and sympathetic solicitors are on hand to help you through this emotionally challenging time. 

Get in touch with a member of our team at hello@hevans.com to find out whether a claim is possible.