When older relatives begin to lose their independence, we expect them to be treated kindly and professionally by those we entrust with their care. Unfortunately, sometimes the most vulnerable members of our population suffer at the hands of nursing home employees.

Warning Signs

According to American Psychological Association estimates, more than 2 million seniors are subjected to some form of abuse or neglect.

Knowing what indicators to look out for can help you prevent your loved ones from being exploited. Bruises, cuts and other visible injuries are perhaps the most obvious signs of abuse. Less obvious, but equally important, signs of neglect are bedsores, sometimes called pressure sores or decubitus ulcers. These can be hidden by bandages, wraps, gowns or bed linens. In addition, unexplained venereal diseases, radical changes in your loved one's behavior or overmedication should also raise red flags.

Pay attention to staff behavior too. Are there unexplained delays when you visit? Do nursing home staff members refuse to allow you to be alone with your family member? Take note of any strange patterns.

What to Do

If you suspect that a resident is suffering from nursing home abuse, it is critically important to take steps to find out. If possible, ask your loved one if anything out of the ordinary is going on, but do not stop there: some residents are unable to express their concern for fear of retaliation, out of embarrassment, or because of mental or physical disabilities. Ask about bedsores, and if your loved one is unable to communicate, be mindful of foul smells in the room. Discuss any suspected problems with a nursing home supervisor or administrator to explore whether there is some reasonable explanation behind any issues you have observed.

If matters do no improve, you should contact an attorney with experience in nursing home abuse and neglect cases. Your attorney will help you file a complaint with your local Adult Protective Services department. Furthermore, an attorney may be able to help you recover monetary damages from abusive or neglectful nursing home workers and their employer for causing injuries and failing to provide your loved one with the adequate level of care he or she deserved.

If you have a loved one residing in an assisted care facility, take steps to keep them from becoming a victim. Watch out for signs of abuse, and pursue any hunches to their conclusion. Remember, when the health and safety of your family member is at stake, you cannot be too careful.