MY BIGGEST FEAR:ABUSE IN NURSING HOME

Every family has dealt with a member of their family getting old and no longer able to care for themselves because of medical reasons whether it's physical or mental.Those families that have,usually have to face a tough decision of putting their loved ones in a nursing home.My family is one of those who had to face this difficult decision.Our decision was difficult because we've heard so many stories of abuse in nursing homes etc.,and the fear of it actually happening to our loved one overwhelmed us.
This led me to do some independent research to learn of what to look for when detecting abuse.While researching,I stumbled across an article by Angela Atkinson that contained details of what to look for when detecting this type of abuse:broken skin,new bruises,mood swings. I learned also that there are a lot of abuse cases reported by families and friends.However, I didn't see how those reports were being handled.This only enhanced my concerns and fear about my mom's stay in the nursing home since I am not in position to actually monitor her stay and treatment in person.I pray that her stay will be pleasant although I'm hurt because I can't be there to protect her in person.Overall, we must not overlook the abuse in nursing homes because you never know,you or your loved one may be there one day.



By A.Barnes