Emotional abuse of nursing home residents is a crime in Virginia

When people think about elder abuse and neglect in Virginia, they often think of some kind of physical abuse, probably because the signs of physical abuse can be very obvious.  However, there are several types of abuse that are more difficult to detect, because the signs are not always clear or obvious.

Emotional elder abuse is one type of abuse that is difficult to spot, because so often there are no outward signs.  It can also be hard to prove.  However, it is a serious issue and if you suspect that it is happening you should take action.

Emotional abuse can be either verbal or non-verbal:

• Verbal intimidation through yelling or making threats
• Saying humiliating things
• Ridiculing a resident
• Ignoring a resident
• Isolating a resident from other people or activities they enjoy
• Frightening or terrorizing a resident

You may suspect elder abuse if you notice tension or arguments between an elder and the caregiver, or if the elder appears scared of a caregiver or staff member.  Personality changes in an elder, especially those that mimic dementia, can be a sign of emotional abuse.

Please get help if you suspect elder abuse of neglect of any kind, even if it is hard for you to determine exactly what is going on.  Our skilled Virginia nursing home abuse & neglect lawyers are here to help people just like you – contact us today at Weisberg & Zaleski.