Elder abuse in long-term care facilities can take on many different forms. In some cases, workers become violent toward residents or emotionally abusive toward them. They might steal from residents.
Other times, the professionals staffing a nursing home neglect people who are vulnerable and in need of support. Neglect can cause a host of serious issues for older adults, including extensive, severe and infected bed sores.
Although many people assume that bed sores are an inevitable consequence of reduced mobility that comes with advanced age, the reality is that many bed sores are preventable or treatable if people receive proper care.
Bed sores are a known health concern at nursing homes
Even members of the general public understand that older adults are at risk of developing bed sores or pressure ulcers, especially if they don’t get out of bed or move around much. Typically, nursing home workers can prevent bedsore development by encouraging regular activity, helping people move and providing them with regular cushioning.
Workers can also prevent bed sores from becoming severe by checking residents for wounds regularly and intervening promptly when they notice bed sore development. Even if people develop bed sores, they should not progress beyond the initial stages if nursing home workers take appropriate care of older adults. The consequences of bed sores may include dangerous systemic infections, reduced functional capabilities and high levels of pain.
Families who become aware of elder abuse or ongoing neglect at a nursing home facility may need to consider taking legal action. Recognizing bed sores as a warning sign of neglect can help families pursue justice.