Bedsores are painful and life-threatening for patients in nursing homes. They occur when a person is confined and immobile to either a bed or a wheelchair for so long that the skin begins to blister. Also known as pressure sores, pressure ulcers and decubitus ulcers, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 11 percent of nursing home patients had the painful condition in 2004. In addition to the obvious physical and emotional trauma that occurs from being stationary for so long, untreated bedsores can become infected and ultimately fatal for the elderly victim.

Bedsores are just one type of neglect and abuse that can occur in nursing homes. The unfortunate fact is that some nursing homes have harmed elderly victims through:

• Physical abuse
• Emotional and psychological abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Financial abuse and exploitation

Unfortunately no one is currently aware of how much elder abuse occurs in the U.S., but the National Center on Elder Abuse speculates that only one in every five cases of elder abuse are reported, and that many vulnerable elderly are either reluctant or incapable of reporting abuse.

Signs of Elder Abuse

The California Department of Justice recently issued a brochure on warning signs that may indicate abuse. It suggests investigating a situation in which the elder person:

• Has sudden emotional changes, such as appearing frightened, secretive and withdrawn
• Shows physical signs of abuse, such as bruises and other injuries, especially if they don't seem to match up with explanations
• Appears to have a lack of personal hygiene, such as a foul smell or unclean living conditions
• Is unwilling to talk around a certain individual
• Is isolated from family members, religious advisors and doctors

Speak With an Attorney

States often have specific laws that govern elder abuse, and those caregivers who violate these laws can receive severe criminal and civil penalties. If you suspect a relative is the victim of nursing home abuse, contact local state authorities. You should also contact an attorney who can explain your rights and ultimately hold the abusers accountable for their actions.