Most reported nursing home abuse falls into the category of neglect, such as bed sores or not maintaining proper sanitation. However, there are many other types of nursing home abuse, and the practice is not rare. According to the online Elder and Nursing Home Abuse Legal Guide, experts estimate that for every reported case of nursing abuse, about five more go unreported (see Resources).
Physical
Nursing home employees can physically abuse residents by hitting, kicking, slapping or any other harmful physical action.
Sexual
Sexual abuse also occurs, and is identified as any kind of sexual activity that occurs without the consent of the resident.
Punishment
Some nursing home employees punish residents in harsh ways, such as isolating them or subjecting them to painful restraints.
Emotional
Insulting residents, threatening or frightening them, or depriving them of their belongings, are examples of another type of nursing home abuse, defined as emotional or psychological abuse.
Neglect
Neglect is the most common type of abuse, including not maintaining clean living quarters or personal hygiene, not dispensing medication, or depriving residents of food and water.
Tags: home abuse, home employees, nursing home, nursing home abuse