Physical abuse of a senior citizen is described as any type of force that could cause pain or an injury. Beating, pushing, shoving, shaking, slapping, striking, hitting or kicking would all be considered physically abusive.
Anyone who may be constrained with straps or tie downs and it results in bruises or injuries is being physically abused. If a loved one is being restrained for too long and their ability to move around freely is restricted, this could result in muscle atrophy and de-conditioning.
Your loved one should not be given drugs that are meant to restrain them, unless their doctor feels these drugs are necessary in their treatment. It is not uncommon for an elderly resident to be over medicated for the convenience of the nursing home staff. This is considered physical abuse.
Administering psychotherapeutic drugs or antipsychotic drugs as a form of “discipline” is also considered abusive.
If a patient is in severe pain, withholding pain medications can also be considered abuse. Withholding of any type of prescribed medications is abusive.
If you believe that your loved one has been neglect or abused, or if the neglect or abuse has lead to serious injury or death of a loved one, contact our office immediately at 866-559-0097 to speak with one of our experienced Illinois nursing home abuse attorneys.
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