When you send your loved one to a nursing home or assisted living facility in Maryland, you have every right to expect that he or she will be placed in a safe environment. Unfortunately, cases of abuse do occur. According to the Maryland Attorney General, if you have a complaint that a reasonable standard of care is not being met, the grievance must be investigated within 30 days by the home administrator.
Physical abuse may be the most obvious to pinpoint. This includes any type of action that results in physical injury or pain experienced by the patient. It can include instances where employees push or hit a resident or commit sexual assault.
Psychological neglect can be a little more difficult to detect but can still be quite damaging. Psychological or emotional abuse includes any type of harassment directed towards the patient by any member of the nursing home staff. The home should also provide adequate protections from harassment made by visitors or other residents.
Nursing home neglect includes a failure to adequately care for the patient by providing medical treatment and healthy meals. Malnutrition and dehydration are red flags that there may be an underlying issue. If nursing home personnel fails to properly clothe, supervise or assist the patient in general, or fails to regularly assist the resident when he or she needs to use the restroom, this may also fall under the realm of abuse.
Elderly abuse can be difficult to identify, especially if the resident has difficulty communicating. It is important to follow up on any safety concerns you may have. Keep your eye out for red flags and document questionable activity as well as dates and responses by the nursing home personnel and administration to ensure your loved one is receiving the care he or she deserves.
This post is to be educational only and should not be used as a substitute for professional legal advice.