Understanding Psychological Abuse in Nursing Homes
When many people think of nursing home abuse, they often first imagine nursing home staff members that push, hit, or handle residents roughly when transferring them to a bed or chair. Unfortunately, physical abuse is not the only type of wrongdoing that occurs in long-term care facilities. In fact, it is not even the most common. Psychological abuse, which is a type of emotional abuse, can also occur. Not only can psychological abuse result in serious harm to nursing home residents, but it is also more common. Below, our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer explains in greater detail.
Psychological Abuse is Very Difficult to Identify
According to a recent study published in Frontiers in Public Health, psychological abuse is the most common type of abuse that occurs in long-term care settings. Neglect, which is unintentional, and physical abuse come in as close seconds to psychological abuse. Female residents who are over the age of 75 are more susceptible to psychological abuse, as are nursing home residents who suffer from mental disorders or who are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.
Unlike physical abuse, psychological abuse does not result in the same physical injuries or symptoms. Due to this, it is even harder for loved ones to identify when it is happening so they can report it. Additionally, psychological abuse has a very broad definition and can be defined in many different ways. Any intentional act that is meant to intimidate, embarrass, or upset an elderly resident can be classified as psychological abuse. It can take many forms and the different signs can be very difficult to spot.
Signs of Psychological Abuse
While psychological abuse is difficult to identify, there are some signs that family members and friends can watch for. These include:
- Residents who report behavior that can be considered psychological abuse, such as gaslighting residents
- Residents who become upset or agitated without clear cause or reason
- Residents becoming more withdrawn, even slightly
- Residents who become non-responsive or non-communicative
- Residents who self-comfort themselves by biting their lips or nails, rocking, or sucking their thumb
- Changes to a resident’s sleeping habits
- Changes to a resident’s eating habits
- Residents who suddenly suffer from anxiety or depression
- Any sudden changes in a resident’s personality, particularly without explanation
- Any other unusual behavior by a resident, particularly without an explanation
If you notice any of the above signs in your loved one, or any other, it is critical to speak to the nursing home immediately. If their response to your concerns is unsatisfactory, it is then important to speak to an attorney.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in Tampa Can Help
At Kohn Law, our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers can help your family. We will review the facts of your case, determine if psychological abuse occurred and if so, help your family member get the help they need. We will also hold the nursing home accountable for paying the fair settlement your loved one deserves. Call us now at 813-428-8504 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1694657/full
