Checking Up on Loved Ones in Nursing Homes over the Holidays

Maintaining a close relationship with a loved one who resides in a nursing home can be trying at times. Whether it is physical distance or health implications that prevent many visits, the holidays are an important time to plan a visit to see elderly loved ones.

Pitman, Kalkhoff, Sicula & Dentice would like to remind everyone to plan a special visit to check on elderly relatives who may be living in a nursing home, or those who are being cared for in an assisted living setting.

The holidays can be an especially difficult time of year for people who’ve lost loved ones due to sickness, injury, or age. Reminding your aging relatives that you are here for them and that you love them can be an invaluable gift to you both.

This time of year also offers an opportunity to check in with your relative about the care they are receiving at the nursing home.

Are you suspicious that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home or assisted living facility? You and your loved one have legal rights to uphold, and Pitman, Kalkhoff, Sicula & Dentices nursing home abuse attorneys are prepared to fight for you today.

Do you notice any unusual markings on their body, like bruises, cuts, or sores?

Has their demeanor changed in a particular way? Are they shy, quiet, or groggy? Do they not seem like themselves?

Its important to take note of any changes that might indicate abuse, neglect or overmedication. Traditional warning signs of abuse or neglect include bruises, cuts, scrapes, bedsores, infections, withdrawn attitude, reluctance to discuss their care, and more.

Overmedication, however, can have more subtle effects on your loved ones behavior and personality. Too many nursing homes are using antipsychotic medications to treat nursing home patients for a host of illnesses, some of which may not even be appropriate for their condition. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of antipsychotics to treat dementia, for instance, but many facilities continue to do just that.

This holiday season, check on your elderly relatives and report any suspicions you may have. Acting quickly can help prevent nursing home negligence and abuse, and may even save your relatives life.

If you need help, call a Milwaukee personal injury attorney from PKSD at  414-333-3333 or fill out our free case evaluation form.