Work with an experienced law firm that will fight for you. Contact us today.

The Signs of Elder Emotional Abuse to Look Out For

February 17, 2023

Emotional abuse of a nursing home resident or someone under the care of a caretaker can be very damaging and take many forms. This mistreatment can cause serious psychological harm without the physical signs of injury that accompany physical or sexual abuse. The results of emotional abuse can be devastating to the well-being of the person affected.

The power imbalance between residents and caretakers in nursing homes can lead to emotional abuse. If you suspect that a family member is receiving mistreatment, look for signs such as changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, or a general feeling of uneasiness. If you are concerned, take your evidence to a qualified legal professional for advice.

What Is Emotional Abuse?

It is the infliction of psychological pain or distress by way of verbal, nonverbal, or psychological means, such as humiliation, intimidation, or manipulation. This form of maltreatment can cause severe emotional trauma, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. It can also lead to physical health problems, as well as social and financial difficulties.

Someone who has been emotionally abused by a caretaker has been manipulated into feeling distrustful of their family, even if they don’t realize they have been mistreated. Similarly, elderly people who are kept isolated from their friends, family, and community suffer both emotional and physical abuse and neglect.

Signs of Emotional Abuse in Elders

Anxiety, depression, or sudden changes in mood
Fear, agitation, or passivity
Poor self-care or hygiene
Unexplained bruises or other physical injuries
Withdrawal or avoidance of activities or people

If you notice any signs that suggest an elderly person might be a victim of emotional abuse, it is crucial to take action. Speak to the elderly in private and in a safe environment if possible. Ask questions in a respectful and non-judgemental manner.

Be aware that they may not feel comfortable sharing if the abuser is nearby. If you are uncertain of the situation but still think there may be emotional abuse, seek advice from a legal expert.

Finding out that an elderly person is being emotionally abused in a nursing home can be a very upsetting experience. It can be even more complicated if the elderly person doesn’t realize what’s happening or can’t understand it. It is possible to obtain legal advice and find out what kind of restitution may be available to you and your loved one, depending on the level of damage sustained.

What to Do After Discovering Emotional Abuse

If you want to take legal action against someone who has hurt an elderly family member, it is vital to take care of the person who was hurt first. Make sure they get the help and support they need to heal. Ask them if they are willing to talk about what happened and listen to what they have to say. Once they are taken care of, you can then look into taking legal action.

If you suspect that a loved one is the victim of emotional abuse, you should seek legal help to identify the perpetrator and take steps to hold them responsible. A specialized attorney can provide guidance on your legal options and help you build a case to pursue justice.

Final Thoughts

No one should have to endure the pain of emotional abuse. Find a legal team that will discuss your situation and analyze the laws in your state to determine what compensation may be available. This way, you can seek justice on behalf of your loved one and provide them with financial compensation for the suffering they have endured.

If you need an elder care attorney in Pittsburgh, trust Murray, Stone & Wilson. We are dedicated to helping injured victims and their family members obtain justice. Our founding partners bring over 30 years of experience as trial lawyers and a track record of more than $300 million in recoveries for our clients, including tens of millions of dollars in recoveries since we opened our doors in 2019. Contact us.