June 4, 2013
Elder abuse is a major problem across Michigan, especially in nursing home settings. And a recent study conducted at Michigan State University pointed out this type of abuse may be much more common than previously believed.
A team of researchers took a random sample of 452 adults with relatives living in nursing homes who are over the age of 65-years-old. They concluded that almost one-quarter of respondents reported their loved one had been a victim of Michigan Nursing Home Abuse at least once during their stay at a care facility.
The study was also able to highlight certain risk factors that may make an individual more prone to being the victim of nursing home abuse. Limitations in activities of daily living, older adult behavioral difficulties, and previous victimization by non-staff perpetrators were linked to a greater chance of experiencing physical abuse.
These findings leave many citizens wondering how they can protect their loved ones from abuse by caregivers. Experts all tend to agree that being active in the care of an elder, both by visiting often and asking plenty of questions to care providers, is the best way to ensure nursing home residents’ safety.
The Michigan Personal Injury Lawyers with Michigan Injury Lawyers are hopeful these tips will help to better protect the elderly from nursing home abuse.