The National Center on Elder Abuse has reported that almost five million elders experience abuse and neglect in nursing homes every year. And these are only the cases that get reported; there might be millions that endure the pain silently. Experts say that for every case that gets reported, there are 23 that go unreported. 

Unfortunately, every senior who relies on other people for their care is at risk of abuse and neglect. If you suspect or have evidence that your loved one was abused in their nursing home, you can take legal action against them. Contact an attorney to learn more about your legal options. Meanwhile, here are some nursing home myths. 

Biggest myths about nursing home abuse 

  • Abuse happens in nursing homes only. 

The term “nursing home abuse” is often used to indicate or talk about elder abuse. However, elder abuse can happen at any place or facility and is not limited to nursing homes only. Assisted living facilities, adult daycares, and even in-home care can result in elder abuse and neglect. Anytime an elder depends on another party to take care of them, they are vulnerable to abuse. 

  • Elder and nursing home abuse is obvious. 

People often think elder and nursing home is obvious and can be noticed easily when it happens. When the family members of the patient do not find any cuts or bruises on their loved one’s body, they assume that the person is in good hands. The myth that elder abuse is obvious is also the reason why many cases go unnoticed. 

However, not all abuse is obvious. For example, emotional abuse, financial abuse, mental torture, etc., can happen silently. 

  • Strangers and paid caregivers are always the culprits. 

It is unfortunate and heartbreaking, but many times, it is not the nursing home caretakers but the family members of the patient who are the abusers. Often, a trusted person hides the fact that their loved one is being abused, which makes detection even more difficult. 

  • Nursing home abuse is the result of stressed caregivers. 

It is often thought that nursing home abuse occurs because of the lack of caregivers and too many patients. However, understaffing is never the reason and should not be used as an excuse to treat someone poorly. Moreover, nursing homes should always have enough staff to provide proper care for each resident. 

If your loved one was abused or neglected in their nursing home, you should not hesitate to contact an attorney. The more you wait, the more evidence slips away from your hands.