Elder abuse comes in different types, and emotional abuse is one of its most common yet less apparent forms. Unlike physical abuse, the signs are not easily identifiable, and many cases go unreported. Even though nursing homes should treat residents with dignity and respect in addition to providing quality care, elder abuse can still take place. If you feel this is happening to your senior loved one, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm for a free consultation.
What is Considered Verbal or Emotional Abuse?
Similar to physical abuse, verbal or emotional abuse can cause distress and pain to a nursing home resident. There are times when caretakers or nursing home staff use verbal or nonverbal acts to cause psychological suffering to a resident. When this happens, an older person can become a victim of emotional abuse. Some examples include humiliation, insults, harassment, and intimidation. When an individual uses explicit language or actions that intend to embarrass, threaten, or degrade a resident, verbal abuse takes place.
Regardless of whether emotional abuse is verbal or nonverbal, it can cause pain and suffering. There are numerous examples of verbal, emotional abuse, and they include the following:
- Name-calling
- Yelling
- Shaming an older person in front of others
- Baby-talking
- Using insensitive language
- Scapegoating
- Maliciously threatening the resident
The list of emotionally abusive behaviors is long, so consider talking to an Oklahoma City verbal or emotional abuse lawyer for professional guidance.
There Are Several Indicators of Verbal or Emotional Abuse
It is essential to recognize the signs of emotional abuse for you or your loved one to receive proper assistance and put a stop to any harmful act. Sometimes, elderly residents are not capable of verbally expressing their true feelings, so you have to be aware of the indicators of emotional abuse. It is also possible that they feel apprehensive or fearful about speaking up, which is entirely understandable in cases like this. Make sure to observe if your loved one is exhibiting these signs of abuse:
- Refusal to make eye contact with particular staff members or caregivers
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in sleeping habits
- Mood swings
- Low self-esteem
- Withdrawn behavior
- Attempting to harm self or others
- Fearful or restless behavior
It can be upsetting when an older person is potentially experiencing emotional abuse, but discussing your case with an Oklahoma City verbal or emotional abuse lawyer will help you to understand your legal options and ultimately make an informed decision as to what steps you should take.
For a free legal consultation with a Oklahoma City Verbal or Emotional Abuse Lawyer serving Oklahoma City, call (800) 794-0444
Continuous Emotional Abuse Can Have Serious Consequences
Even if verbal or emotional abuse does not have physical signs, it can still make seniors feel uncomfortable and helpless. Not only can it affect your loved one physiologically, but it can also impact their overall well-being.
You may soon notice significant behavioral and personality changes such as depression, excessive indecisiveness, feelings of hopelessness, agitation, unreasonable anxiety, and lack of enthusiasm. Since it may be hard to distinguish the effects of emotional abuse and physical illness, try to make an effort to check on your loved one often, and seek the assistance of an Oklahoma City verbal or emotional abuse lawyer.
You should also think about sharing your concerns with your loved one at the nursing home. This way, they can feel less alone, and hopefully, be more open to discussing persisting problems or worries. A lawyer can suggest more ways to offer support and lawfully address the issue at hand.
Oklahoma City Oklahoma City Verbal or Emotional Abuse Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Your Loved One’s Safety Should Come First
Emotional abuse is a serious matter, and it is crucial to make seniors feel secure as soon as possible. Your Oklahoma City verbal or emotional abuse lawyer can advise about the best course of action to take. This may involve changing nursing homes or recommending professional help. Remember to reassure your loved one that nothing is their fault and that you are taking steps to ensure they can feel protected once again.
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Report Emotional Abuse Immediately
It is understandable for the elderly to feel vulnerable when emotional abuse takes place, and you have to be prepared to carry out the necessary measures to attend to the problem promptly. You can begin by calling the attention of the nursing facility itself or contacting concerned agencies that correctly handle elderly abuse issues. If you are unsure where to start, an Oklahoma City verbal or emotional abuse lawyer can lend a hand and evaluate your case.
On the other hand, if you are a nursing home resident who feels abused, do not hesitate to inform any trusted family member or friend at once. You can also bring up the matter with your doctor or your attorney. The sooner you report your circumstances, the sooner you get proper assistance. No one deserves to mistreatment, and you have the right to receive quality care and services.
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Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Is Here for You
It is easy to feel insecure and fearful when it comes to reporting misdeeds. However, having an attorney on your side means you do not have to fight for your rights or that of your loved one alone. Nursing home abuse cases can involve several federal and state laws, but your lawyer can help dispel any confusion you may feel.
Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to speak with a member of our team about the legal options you have to fight for the rights of your loved one.
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