Unfortunately, there are several ways in which elders are abused while staying in nursing homes. Psychological abuse (or emotional abuse) is among the most damaging and prevalent forms of abuse that elders endure in nursing homes.
Here’s what you should know about psychological nursing home abuse:
Psychological Abuse Can Be Just As Harmful As Physical Abuse
While physical abuse can be seriously damaging to elders in nursing homes, psychological abuse can be just as harmful. In fact, psychological abuse can even lead to physical ailments in some cases.
Psychological abuse may lead to physical side effects, such as:
- Concentration challenges
- Mood swings
- Muscle tension
- Nightmares
- Racing heartbeat
- Assorted aches and pains
- Anxiety
- Chronic pain
- Guilt
- Insomnia
- Social withdrawal or loneliness
Examples of Psychological Abuse
The following behaviors carried out by caregivers can cause serious psychological harm to a nursing home patient:
- Intimidation through yelling or threats
- Humiliation and ridicule
- Repeated blaming or scapegoating
- Ignoring the elder
- Isolating the senior from friends or activities
- Terrorizing or tormenting the elder
Warning Signs of Psychological Abuse
Your loved one may be enduring psychological abuse in their nursing home if they report any of the following:
- Threatening, belittling, or controlling caregiver behavior
- Behavior from the senior that mirrors dementia, such as rocking, sucking, or mumbling to themselves
Impacts of Psychological Abuse
Studies show that psychological abuse can have serious impacts on the abused, such as:
- A study found that levels of psychological distress, emotional symptoms, and depression are higher than those observed among seniors who haven’t experienced this type of abuse.
- A study found that older women who only endure verbal abuse end up with more significant declines in mental health than those who endure only physical abuse.
If you suspect your loved one is enduring psychological abuse in their nursing home, it’s crucial to take action right away. We have helped many others in similar situations, and we may be able to help you, too.
Call our Charlotte lawyers at Benoit Law Firm, PLLC today at (877) 600-7212 to speak with an attorney about your case.