Each year in the United States there are over one million reports of elder abuse by nursing home staff. This number is growing rapidly due to the expansion of elder population in the US. Approximately 34 million people who are now over the age of 65 need assisted living services. According to numerous studies reported by the National Center for Elder Abuse the most common type of elder abuse is the general neglect of basic needs. The second most common type is intentional abuse including physical, mental and sexual abuse.

General neglect occurs when the staff has a lack of interest for the well being of the elderly by not providing basic necessities such as food, water and shelter. This form of neglect can also lead to more serious forms of disorders such as bed sores. Bed sores are ulcers caused by a constant amount of pressure on a specific area of the body. Bed sores vary in severity often first appearing as persistent red areas on the skin. If left untreated, these sores can develop ulcers that reach the muscle, bone or tendon. The elderly have a higher risk of developing bed sores due to thin skin, malnutrition and poor circulation. This type of neglect is easily preventable, but reversing the damage becomes increasingly difficult if bed sores are left untreated.

Intentional abuse of nursing home residents by a staff member or other resident includes physical, mental and even sexual abuse.

• Physical abuse may be one of the most visible types of violations seen. This type of abuse is often seen in the form of bruises, broken bones and cuts.
• Mental Abuse in nursing homes is harder to uncover due to the fact it cannot be visibly seen by family members. This form of abuse can be just as harsh as physical abuse and occurs when there is verbal harassment, intentional neglect and isolation from friends and family.
• Sexual abuse in nursing homes can be forced by staff members or other residents in the facility. These types of incidents range from sexual intercourse (vaginal or anal), inappropriate photography or forced nudity.

When faced with nursing home abuse, residents and family member are often left feeling confused and angry over the violation of trust by these facilities. Consulting a nursing home abuse attorney who specializes in uncovering abuse can help you regain your power by protecting your legal rights.