Southern California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Blog
Psychological and emotional abuse happens much too often in nursing homes in Orange County, and it is important to hold the facility accountable for any harm it has caused. In order to file a nursing home abuse claim arising out of psychological abuse, it is important to understand more about this type of abuse and how it shows up in patients. The following are five things you should know about psychological and emotional abuse in Orange County.
- Psychological or Emotional Abuse is a Form of Nursing Home Abuse
While psychological or emotional abuse does not involve the infliction of physical pain, or the deprivation of food or medical care, it is certainly a form of nursing home abuse that happens more often than many people might think. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) explains that it can involve verbal assaults, threats, harassment, intimidation, or behaviors designed to embarrass an elderly nursing home resident.
- Physical Harm Can Result From Psychological or Emotional Abuse
Even though psychological or emotional abuse may not involve the infliction of physical pain or suffering, it can certainly result in physical symptoms that can have long-lasting and devastating consequences for a nursing home resident. In some cases, single egregious acts of emotional abuse, or persistent emotional abuse can lead to severe malnutrition, depression, and other serious issues.
- Signs of Psychological Abuse Can be Difficult to Identify
The signs of psychological or emotional abuse can sometimes be more difficult to identify than signs of physical abuse since they are not as obvious as indicators of harm. What should you look for? According to the NCOA, any elderly nursing home resident who experiences unexplained changes in behavior, unexplained changes in sleep patterns, withdrawal from regular activities, increased fear, or increased anxiety could be experiencing emotional abuse.
- Older Adults With Dementia are Particularly Susceptible to Psychological Abuse
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can be particularly vulnerable when it comes to psychological and emotional abuse, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. As such, it is especially important to pay attention to signs or symptoms of psychological abuse if your elderly loved one has dementia or another cognitive impairment.
- Nursing Home Abuse Claims for Psychological Abuse Must be Filed Within Two Years
If you are considering the possibility of filing a nursing home lawsuit arising out of psychological or emotional abuse at a nursing home in Orange County, you should know that the lawsuit must be filed within a relatively short time window. Under California law, most psychological abuse claims, as well as other nursing home abuse lawsuits, must be filed within two years from the date of the abusive incident.
Contact an Orange County Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Do you need help assessing whether an elderly loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect in Southern California? Our advocates know that some types of nursing home abuse can be especially difficult to identify, including indicators of psychological or emotional abuse. Our experienced Orange County nursing home abuse lawyers can begin working with you today on your case. Contact the Walton Law Firm for more information about how we can assist you.
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Most Common San Bernardino County Nursing Home Injuries and Causes
