While the abuse of a senior living in a nursing facility is always inexcusable, nursing home abuse is not always of a physical nature and may be difficult to detect. Involuntary seclusion or social isolation can have a profound negative impact on a nursing home resident’s psychological health. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, his or her well-being is of utmost concern, and it’s important to know the signs of any mistreatment by their caregivers.
In the following article, the nursing home abuse attorneys at Pope & Howard, P.C. in Atlanta, Georgia, discuss the signs of involuntary seclusion and what you should do if you suspect your loved one is experiencing this type of abuse.
Involuntary seclusion is a type of psychological or emotional abuse that can occur in nursing homes or other elder care facilities. The involuntary seclusion of a nursing home resident can include:
Because this type of abuse can take many forms, it is important to be aware of the signs of involuntary seclusion to help protect your loved one.
Skilled nursing caregivers may need to seclude a nursing home resident if the person is behaving in a way that could harm other residents. However, involuntary seclusion under most any other circumstances can be considered nursing home abuse. Some possible warning signs of involuntary seclusion are:
As the loved one of a nursing home resident, one of the best ways you can help prevent or stop nursing home abuse is to visit and talk to your loved one on a regular basis. Listen to their concerns and take the appropriate actions to protect them when necessary. Because some nursing home residents cannot voice their concerns — or may be afraid to do so — it is also important to keep your eyes open for any signs of nursing home abuse during visits.
Any form of involuntary seclusion can impact a senior’s physical and mental health in a devastating way. Consequences of involuntary seclusion can include:
Reporting the first signs of involuntary seclusion, or any other type of nursing home abuse, is key to helping prevent these devastating consequences.
If you suspect your loved one is suffering nursing home abuse such as involuntary seclusion, contact the experienced nursing home abuse lawyers at Pope & Howard immediately. You can reach us via our toll-free number, (866) 910-0642, or by completing our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. We will answer any questions you may have and discuss your legal options.