A horrifying crime that takes place across North Carolina and the entire country: elder abuse. As many of our loved ones age, there may come a point where they can no longer live independently and must move into an assisted care or nursing home situation. The majority of assisted care in nursing homes are run well, but it is a nightmare if you realize your loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect. It is important to understand the difference between bees two issues. According to the Nursing Home Abuse Center, the main difference between neglect and abuse stems from if the person or institution in question is actively trying to harm the resident or not.
Of the two issues, nursing home neglect is far more common. While there are definitely heinous individuals out there who are actively abusing seniors, it is more common to come across an assisted living or nursing home facility that is understaffed. This can lead to a neglect situation. The four main types of nursing home neglect involve medical neglect, neglect of general basic needs, neglect of personal hygiene, and social or emotional neglect.
The signs of neglect are often difficult to pinpoint, so it is important to stay cognizant of your loved one and their appearance. Many seniors try to downplay neglect so as not to cause their family concern. Vigilance is very important.
It is a sad situation when an understaffed nursing facility leads to neglect. However, no matter what the cause of the neglect is it is important to protect your loved one and bring it to the attention of authorities.
