Alzheimer’s Disease and Nursing Home Abuse

November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, which makes it a great time to consider signs of nursing home abuse in the context of Alzheimer’s disease.

If you notice any signs of abuse or have any suspicions that your loved one has been neglected, report it to your local elderly abuse hotline. Then contact the Milwaukee nursing home abuse attorneys at Pitman, Kalkoff, Sicula & Dentice for a free consultation and review of your claim to see if you are entitled to compensation. Our attorneys charge no fees unless you receive a fair outcome.

Those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dimentia are particularly susceptible to abuse because they often cannot voice their own objections, concerns or wishes. It can also be difficult for loved ones to recognize abuse because communication is difficult or impossible.

Nursing home abuse is often defined as an intentional act that results in emotional, physical, sexual, psychological or financial injury. Neglect is also a form of abuse, and can involve withholding necessary care or basic needs, including medical care, shelter, food, water or protection from harm.

The following signs of nursing home abuse may indicate your loved one is not receiving adequate care:

• Increased aggression or easily agitated
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Significantly reduced ability to communicate
• Mood swings
• Unexplained physical injuries like cuts, scrapes, bruises, or burns
• Changes in behavior
• Sudden rapid development of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
• Antisocial behavior
• Unexplained financial problems or significant changes in finances
• Rapidly developing health problems

Alzheimer’s patients are also susceptible to people who may take advantage of their detached condition by committing acts of theft or fraud against them, leaving them deep in financial trouble.

It can often be difficult to recognize abuse happening to those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Beware of any sings that may differ from your loved one’s typical behavior or any increase in symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Call 414-333-3333 or complete a WRITE SOME TEXT HERE form to begin.