Helping Your Loved One Recover From Nursing Home Psychological Abuse 

 Posted on July 30, 2021 in Nursing Home Abuse

When an older person suffers from intentional emotional harm at the hands of their caregivers,  it is often referred to as psychological abuse. It is underreported and difficult to identify as there are not physically visible indicators of this type of harm. Because this type of abuse can be so damaging, it is vital to be aware of the signs that may point to psychological elder abuse and what actions you can take so that your loved one can successfully heal from the mistreatment. 

Psychological Elder Abuse Explained

Physical abuse is often believed to be more common and more damaging, however, emotional abuse such as ridicule, isolation, and intimidation can be just as harmful as physical abuse. Psychological elder abuse occurs when an older individual suffers harm through verbal harassment, yelling, or insults. 

Emotional abuse can be verbal or nonverbal. Some examples of psychological elder abuse include:

• Habitual blaming or demeaning behavior

• Terrorizing or menacing the elder

• Using threatening behavior or yelling

The individuals most likely to perpetuate this behavior are often the elder’s caregivers and family members. There are groups of elders who may be more susceptible to this type of abuse, including elders who are divorced, have cognitive impairments, or live in a low-income home. 

Sadly, emotional abuse is often just the tipping point for mistreatment in nursing homes. It is essential to know what behaviors may indicate that your loved one is experiencing psychological abuse. Some of these changes may include low self-esteem, avoiding eye contact, sudden mood swings, and depression. 

Recovering From Nursing Home Emotional Abuse

As previously mentioned, psychological abuse can be incredibly damaging, potentially leading to depression, PTSD, and anxiety. An elder who has suffered abuse at the hands of their caregivers may require psychological care once they have been moved to a safer environment.

Numerous outlets are available to report elder abuse, including a domestic violence hotline, your local branch of Adult Protective Services, and an elder abuse attorney. Once the abuse is reported, the government will likely appoint the elder a caregiver. To determine the existence and extent of abuse, the caregiver will investigate the situation by asking the elder questions regarding their treatment, daily routine, and conversations with staff. 

If you believe that your loved one is experiencing psychological abuse at their nursing home, a highly recommended avenue is to seek a nursing home abuse lawyer. An attorney can gather information regarding the nursing home regulations and abuse laws. By guiding the victim through each step of the legal process, the attorney will be able to present the strongest case to ensure the maximum amount of damages. 

Contact a Chicago Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Today

When an elder suffers from emotional abuse in a place that should be their home, it can be very distressing and have long-term effects. A Cook County elder abuse lawyer can assist in collecting evidence, explaining legal options, and recommending the best course of action. Contact Schwartz Injury Law - Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Group to schedule your free consultation by calling 312-535-4625. 

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ILCS/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1222&ChapterID=21

https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/ProtectionAdvocacy/Documents/ea_lawenforcement.pdf