Questions You Need to Ask to Avoid
Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes

I was recently interviewed on Drugwatch Radio about how to avoid elder abuse in nursing homes. I think it’s important to note that the National Center on Elder Abuse reports that 90% of all elder abuse cases are perpetrated by family members. As would be expected, people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol and those who have mental and emotional illnesses are more likely to be abusive to someone in their care.

I believe anyone who has ever cared for an elderly person or someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease can understand the rage that leads to elder abuse. There is nothing that can ever justify it or make it right, but the emotional stress of caregiving, combined with physical exhaustion, can wear caregivers down and make them vulnerable to saying and doing things that they would not do under normal circumstances.

If you think you might be in danger of hurting someone in your care, or if you suspect that someone you know is being abused, call Eldercare Locater at 1-800-677-1116. If you call during regular business hours, they will connect you with resources in your area. If the situation is serious, dangerous, or threatening call 911 or the local police for immediate help.

Elder abuse is tragic and horrible beyond words, but we must be aware that it can and does happen. In my interview with Michelle Llamas, I talk about the questions you should ask and things you should look for before you decide to put a loved one in an assisted living, memory care or nursing facility.

Nothing will every guarantee that your loved one can be kept absolutely safe from family members, friends, or professional caregivers, but asking the right questions, being able to recognize the signs of abuse, and knowing how to respond and who to talk to if you suspect someone you know is being abused financially, physically, emotionally or sexually, can help prevent it from happening.

Click here to listen to the show: Elaine Sanchez Podcast: Caregiver Tips on Nursing Homes, Elder Care

You might also want to watch the video: Guilt – Get Lost You Big Bully