Shocking Nursing Home Abuse Statistics in 2025
Nursing home abuse is never acceptable. Although nursing homes in Florida, and throughout the United States, are notoriously understaffed, and the staff members in these facilities are underpaid, these are never excuses for abusing or neglecting residents. Tragically, it happens far more often than most people think. Below, our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers outline a few alarming statistics that outline just how prevalent this behavior is in long-term facilities.
One in Ten Residents are Victims of Abuse Every Year
The number of nursing home residents who complain of abuse every year is shocking. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in ten residents have admitted that they have been the victim of abuse each year. This is perhaps the most alarming statistic because of the high percentage of residents who feel that they are not safe in the place they call home.
Emotional Abuse is the Most Common Type in Nursing Homes
There are many different forms of nursing home abuse. Many people first think of physical abuse, which can involve hitting, punching, pinching, pulling, and more. While this type of abuse can occur in nursing home facilities, it is not the most common type. In fact, the most common type of abuse in long-term care facilities is emotional abuse. This involves belittling, humiliating, ignoring residents. Any type of behavior that causes a nursing home resident psychological harm is considered emotional abuse.
There are 24 Unreported Cases of Abuse for Every Reported Incident
According to the National Council on Aging, there are 24 unreported cases of nursing home abuse for every reported incident. There are many reasons nursing home residents do not report abuse and neglect. Sadly, some of the most vulnerable nursing home residents, such as those suffering from dementia, are often the victims of abuse because they do not have the physical or mental capacity to understand it is happening, or to report it.
Residents also fear retaliation from reporting nursing home abuse, scared that the situation will only become worse. Nursing home residents also sometimes feel shame and embarrassment, which keeps them from reporting the wrongdoing.
Nearly 36 Percent of Residents Have Witnessed Abuse
Other residents in nursing homes often witness abuse and neglect, yet they too do not have the confidence to report it. Witnessing abuse is also very traumatic and can cause serious psychological harm. Residents may fear the same fate will happen to them, and it is hurtful for them to watch people they may have become friends with suffer harm.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in Tampa Can Help
No one wants their loved one to become a statistic. If you suspect that your loved one has suffered harm, you need legal help. Our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers at Kohn Law can provide it, help you make things right, and obtain the damages your loved one is entitled to. Call us today at 813-428-8504 or fill out our online form to arrange a consultation and to learn more about how we can help you and your family.
Sources:
ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-elder-abuse/
cdc.gov/elder-abuse/about/index.html
