10 Signs Of Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is one of the most commonly known and seen types of abuse, whether in a nursing home or in another setting. However, just because you have a general understanding of physical abuse does not mean that you are fully equipped to handle physical abuse if your loved one is a victim of this crime. Here, you can determine 10 signs of physical abuse in order to protect your loved one in a nursing home.

What is Physical Abuse?

Physical abuse is any type of unwanted physical contact between two people. This can include issues such as:

• Broken bones.
• Bruises.
• Burn marks.
• Sprains.
• Hitting a resident.
• Force feeding a resident.

These issues should be avoided in every nursing home. If you suspect that physical abuse has taken place, consider these 10 signs of physical abuse.

1. Unexplained Changes In Behavior

If your loved one suddenly seems anti-social, depressed, angry, or frightened, you should take a deeper look at what is happening in the nursing home.

2. Confession Of Abuse

If your loved one tells you that he or she has been abused, you need to take this statement seriously. Further investigation is necessary in order to determine what has happened and how you and your family should proceed.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration can be a manifestation of physical abuse or another type of abuse.

4. Difficulty Sleeping

If, during your visits, your loved one seems distracted and tired, he or she might be having difficulty sleeping due to abuse. If your loved one complains of recent nightmares or difficulty falling or staying asleep, consider looking into the possibility of abuse.

5. Fear Of Bathing Or Using The Bathroom

Sudden fears, such as the fear of undressing or using the bathroom, could be the result of physical abuse. Your loved one might be in pain while performing these tasks, or her or she might have been abused while performing these tasks. Recent fears such as these should be investigated.

6. Fear Of A Person Or Place

If your loved one is suddenly afraid of a particular person, it might be because that person has been abusing your loved one. Similarly, if a sudden fear of a particular place is discovered, it might be because he or she was abused at that place.

7. Improper Hygiene

Nursing home staff members are obligated to help your loved one dress, bathe, brush his or her teeth, etc. If rough handling occurs during these tasks, or if your loved one’s hygiene is neglected, your loved one might be the victim of physical abuse.

8. Depression

Sudden changes in behavior, especially depression, could be the result of a negative experience.

9. Visible Injuries

If you notice any injuries, such as cuts or bruises, on your loved one, this could be the result of physical abuse.

10. Weight Loss

Weight loss can reveal sudden stress or lack of appetite, which could be triggered by abuse.

While noticing these signs will not always mean that your loved one has been abused, it is important to take a closer look if you notice these issues.