Alzheimer’s Patients More Prone to Nursing Home Abuse

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Elder abuse can include a number of things from physical and sexual abuse to financially taking advantage of a senior. However, there are certain risks factors that may make a person more prone to elder abuse than another—and one of them is suffering from Alzheimer’s and other similar forms of dementia.

According to a 2010 study from the University of California at Irvine, 50 percent of elders have experienced some form of elder abuse at the hands of their supposed caretakers. This includes elders who experience nursing home abuse as well as those who are semi-independent and receive “care” from family members or nurses at home.

The nursing home abuse study included 129 elderly residents along with their caregivers, and a panel met monthly to explore the observations. The degree of abuse and neglect was considered, and in total 47 percent of caregivers were considered abusers in one way or another. However, psychological abuse was by far the most prevalent—and sadly, that’s also the type of abuse which can be most challenging for an outsider or loved one to see. However, the researchers also said that the best way to know if abuse may be happening is by considering how a dementia patient responds to a caregiver.

It’s probably not surprising that Alzheimer’s patients are more prone to abuse. After all, they are least likely to ask for help, can be easily confused, and are some of the most vulnerable patients.

Researchers reveal that if a dementia patient appears aggressive physically towards a caregiver, that’s a red flag for abuse—especially when this behavior is new or the elder doesn’t act this way towards anyone else. Swearing, pushing and generally being hostile towards a caregiver might be a sign that elder abuse is occurring.

Oftentimes, Alzheimer’s patients aren’t able to articulate the stress they’re enduring, but acting out physically is the only tool in their arsenal. Sadly, once an elder has been abused, it’s nearly impossible to ever reverse the damage that’s been done. However, if you suspect an elder is being abused, you might be the only person with the power to stop it. While many people don’t want to interfere, keep in mind that an Alzheimer’s patient is at the mercy of those around them.

Whether the elder receives care in their home or at a nursing facility, scores of research continue to reveal the shocking reality of just how common elder abuse is. Equally important as stopping this elder abuse is ensuring that the abusers are held accountable and see their day in court. Nursing home abuse lawsuits are gaining in number as more people discover the nursing home abuse and come forward to put an end to it.

Along with mental impairment such as Alzheimer’s, another big risk factor for elder abuse is social isolation. While living with someone can reduce the risk of elder abuse, that’s assuming that that “someone” isn’t the abuser. If an elder has experienced a history of domestic violence, that increases their chances of experiencing elder abuse even more. Even if you’re not positive that abuse is occurring (it’s rare that the signs are 100 percent clear), it’s a good idea to get help. Calling an elder abuse hotline can give you the information you need to make a move and potentially save a life.

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Signs of nursing home abuse can include the tell-tale physical signs such as bedsores, bruises, broken bones, burns, pressure marks and abrasions. However, since neglect and psychological abuse are most common with dementia patients, you need to look deeper:

Has the person suddenly withdrawn from favorite activities, have they become depressed, or do you notice bedsores?

Do their relationships seem inexplicably stressed, are they arguing regularly with their caregiver, or has there been a sudden shift in their financial situation?

Alzheimer’s patients don’t have the ability to communicate as well as other elders, but they might be issuing a cry for help in their own way.

What You Can Do

Dementia patients need someone like you to have a voice for them. In the case of a life-threatening emergency, always call 911 immediately. However, it’s more likely that a hotline for elder abuse will be your best bet. If you even slightly suspect abuse, it’s time to tell someone. Suffering in silence is common for many elders being abused. Each state has a different elder abuse hotline that provides information and resources for your specific region. Call 800-677-1116 right away to get more information.

Free Legal Help for Filing a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit

If you suspect elder abuse or nursing home abuse, the person you know may qualify for an elder abuse legal claim and deserve compensation. Find out more when you visit the Elder Abuse, Nursing Home Neglect Class Action Lawsuit Investigation today. Once your information is received, a lawyer will contact you if you have a case for a free elder abuse claim review.