Types of Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes

Every year, an untold number of elderly men and women suffer physical abuse in their nursing homes. Many of these cases go unreported for several reasons, but this does not justify the abuse. Individuals live in nursing homes to receive special attention and care, not to be subjected to abuse.

In most cases, nursing home attendants are responsible for committing these acts of physical abuse. They may have a number of motives, including frustration with patients or emotional distress. Regardless of the motive, abusing patients is never acceptable.

• Many abuse victims do not report abuse for many reasons. Usually, these include:


• Physical or mental incapacitation


• Fear for retribution

For this reason, it may be up to the victim's family to determine whether their loved one has been abused. Families of retirement home residents may be able to tell if their loved ones have suffered by looking for signs, such as:

• Unexplained physical harm


• Emotional distancing


• Bed sores


• Malnutrition

Nursing home attendants should be able to explain their patients' ailments, especially when new ones arise. If they cannot do so, then it may be a sign that their patients have been abused.

Families of abused residents should report the offending home immediately to stop the actions of abuse. After reporting the home to legal authorities, families of victims may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the establishment.

Before pursuing legal action, families of victims are advised to speak with experienced personal injury lawyers. Lawyers can help individuals build strong legal cases in their pursuit of financial compensation.

To find out if filing a lawsuit is your best course of action, consult with the New Jersey nursing home abuse attorneys of Levinson Axelrod, P.A. and speak with one of our experienced attorneys about your case.