Elder abuse in nursing homes is a critical issue that impacts the lives of vulnerable adults and their families. This mistreatment undermines the dignity, health, and well-being of elders, often leading to long-term psychological and physical consequences. If you have a loved one who lives in a long-term care facility, understanding how to recognize and report elder abuse is key to advocating for their safety and rights.
Consulting a Milwaukee nursing home abuse lawyer can be a crucial step in protecting your loved one’s rights and pursuing justice.
Potential Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. If you notice any of the following signs, your loved one may be suffering mistreatment at the hands of their caregivers.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves causing bodily harm through actions such as hitting, pushing, or improperly using restraints. Common signs of physical abuse include unexplained injuries, bruises, or fractures; frequent visits to the emergency room; and the resident’s fear of being touched or sudden changes in behavior around certain staff members.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse can be verbal or non-verbal, aimed at causing distress or anguish. It may manifest as withdrawal, depression, anxiety, or unusual behavior patterns. Victims may exhibit fearfulness, a sudden loss of self-esteem, or reluctance to speak openly, especially in the presence of caregivers.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse involves the unauthorized or improper use of an elder’s funds, property, or assets. Indicators include sudden changes in their financial situation, missing personal belongings, unusual bank account activity, or adjustments to wills and power of attorney without a plausible explanation.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse includes any non-consensual sexual contact or interaction. Although sexual abuse can be difficult to identify, signs may include bruises around the breasts or genital area, unexplained sexually transmitted diseases, torn or stained clothing, and acute anxiety or withdrawal.
Neglect
Neglect occurs when nursing home staff fail to provide adequate care. Malnutrition, dehydration, unsanitary living conditions, unattended medical needs, and a lack of personal hygiene can all be indicators of neglect.
How to Report Suspected Nursing Home Abuse in Wisconsin
If you believe that your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, it is important to act quickly and notify the proper authorities. In Wisconsin, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) oversees the health, safety, and welfare of individuals in health and residential care.Â
In cases of nursing home abuse, you can report this mistreatment directly to DQA using one of the following methods:
- Complete the Complaint Intake Survey, F-00607 online.
- Call the toll-free number at 800-642-6552 and leave a voicemail message; your call will be returned by the next working day.
Speak to a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Milwaukee Today
Taking action against nursing home abuse can be daunting. However, a Milwaukee nursing home abuse attorney can provide the guidance and support necessary to navigate the legal process. In addition to filing a claim with the DQA, you can also pursue a civil lawsuit against the facility and recover compensation for any damages that your loved one suffered.
A Milwaukee personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, the merits of your case, and the best course of action to protect your loved one and hold the responsible parties accountable. If you suspect nursing home abuse, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance—contact an attorney as soon as possible to explore your options.