How to Talk to a Loved One Who May Be Afraid to Report Nursing Home Abuse
Even after they have suffered serious injuries, many nursing home residents do not want to report abuse or neglect. There are many reasons for this, including embarrassment, the fear of retaliation, or a dependence on their abusers. Still, it is important that nursing home abuse is reported, so you can hold responsible parties accountable and prevent any harm from occurring to other residents.
The best advice is to approach the conversation with privacy, gentleness, and patience. Below, one of our Tampa nursing home abuse attorneys outlines other tips that can help.
Setting the Stage
Before even broaching the subject with your loved one, make sure that you document any signs of abuse you have already noticed. These may include sudden changes in your loved one’s mood, poor hygiene, rapid weight loss, or unexplained bruises. Having this information can help you bring the conversation back on track if you or your loved one gets distracted.
When you are ready to speak to your loved one about the abuse, find an area of the facility that is quiet and where you can have a confidential conversation. If possible, taking them on a private outing where they cannot be overheard by other residents or staff members will provide the full privacy both of you will need.
Guiding the Conversation
Nursing home residents will often tell you they are fine or that everything is normal within the facility. To avoid this, avoid asking them open-ended questions such as, “are you okay?” Instead, ask them specific questions that will gently prompt them into talking about daily life in the facility. Some questions that can help get the conversation started include:
- Do you feel cared for and safe here?
- Are there any staff members in the facility that make you feel scared or uncomfortable?
- Are you receiving regular help with bathing, eating, and other daily tasks?
Even with these pointed questions, it is not uncommon for nursing home residents to refuse giving the answers you need. When this is the case, do not express anger or pressure them.
Reassurance and Validation
Whether your loved one does open about the abuse and neglect, or they seem fearful to you, it is critical that you acknowledge their embarrassment and fear. Assure them that their feelings are completely normal and justified and tell them that you are there to advocate for them and that they are not alone in this situation. Then ask them how they want to proceed and as much as possible, try to respect their decision.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys in Tampa Can Help
If you or your loved one is ready to file a lawsuit and hold nursing home staff members, and the facility, accountable for any injuries your family member has sustained, our Tampa nursing home abuse attorneys can help. At Kohn Law, our experienced attorney can guide you through the process and help you and your family obtain the best possible outcome. Call us today at 813-428-8504 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0400/0400.html
