You had your qualms about letting strangers care for your elderly parent rather than a family member. And now that it’s been while since mom or dad settled a nursing home, you sense that they might be facing neglect or abuse.
It’s crucial to confront potential abuse rather than giving the nursing home staff or personal caregiver the benefit of the doubt. Nursing home abuse negatively impacts and takes the lives of elderly individuals, so it’s necessary to address it before worst-case scenario arises. However, you should be extremely thoughtful about the manner and delivery of questions and discussions about abuse with your parent.
Show that you care
It’s one thing to say you care about your elderly parents, and it’s another thing to show you care. When you ask your loved ones about abuse, it’s important to be empathetic throughout the conversation.
Asking thoughtful questions can help you prove your concern is genuine. For example, maybe you decide to inquire about some bruises you notice. Try not to jump to conclusions and say, “Who did this to you?” Instead, you can lead in with questions about how they are doing. Then, ask if they are getting the help they need, if they may have fallen recently or if they remember how they got the bruises.
You might be correct in assuming someone hurt them. But since elderly individuals often need adjust to a new sense of weakness and learn to lean on others for smaller tasks, it’s likely their injury is the result of a misstep on their own part. Whether it’s a case of abuse or an accident, your parent might feel embarrassed or scared to talk about it. So, it can be comforting if you approach them in a kind way and hear them out.
Ask for support
Since conversations regarding abuse can be difficult to conduct, it might be helpful to rope in the help of siblings or other family members. And if you want professional guidance or hope to seek justice, then a personal injury can help your family move on from this tough experience.
