What’s the Difference Between Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?
Moving your loved one into a nursing home may be the hardest decision you’ll ever make. You’re trusting complete strangers with their health and their lives. But because nursing homes are often extremely expensive and appear high-quality to visitors, many family members assume that their loved ones are in good hands.
Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect are much more common than many people believe. Both abuse and neglect are more likely to occur when nursing homes understaff or hire under-qualified workers to boost their profits. But what’s the difference between abuse and neglect?
Abuse refers to more direct forms of mistreatment. It can include physically hurting someone, whether it’s hitting or pushing them, or even sexually assaulting them. It can also include verbal and emotional abuse, as well as financial abuse that involves theft of assets, property, or estates.
Neglect is an indirect form of mistreatment, but it can be equally or even more damaging. It can include failing to bathe a resident, give them their medication, or include them in activities. In severe cases, residents may even be left alone in their rooms for days at a time with no food, water, or supervision.
While there are differences in the types of mistreatment when comparing abuse and neglect, both can be similarly compensated with nursing home abuse claims. If you suspect your loved one is an abuse or neglect victim at their care facility, our Roanoke nursing home abuse lawyers want to help. Contact Skolrood Law Firm today for a free consultation.
