Is Depression a Sign of Nursing Home Abuse?

 Posted on April 29, 2024 in Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect

Leaving your elderly loved one in the care of a nursing home can be stressful for both you and them, as you want to be sure they are properly cared for. Mood changes that occur after your loved one is in a facility can be a symptom of aging, though depression and other sudden mood changes may also be a result of nursing home abuse or neglect.

If you suspect that your loved one is dealing with abuse at their nursing home facility, you should contact an experienced Illinois nursing home abuse lawyer right away to investigate these claims further.

Mood Changes in Your Loved One

Depression, along with mood changes like anxiety, fearfulness, anger, and sadness, can be symptoms of aging or mental deterioration. Still, when these changes occur suddenly after your loved one has started living in a nursing home, they may be an indicator of abuse or neglect.

When visiting your relative in a nursing home, keep an eye out for signs of depression, including the following:

• Loss of interest in activities he or she previously enjoyed
• Lack of appetite
• Persistent sad, empty, or anxious feelings
• Trouble sitting still or restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating, memory issues, or indecisiveness
• Trouble sleeping, including oversleeping and lack of sleep at night
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

If these signs are combined with other mood changes, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, and bruises, illness, or injuries that have appeared without explanation, your loved one may be suffering abuse or neglect at the hands of nursing home staff or management.

Can I Pursue a Claim Against a Nursing Home?

Pursuing a claim against a nursing home is complex, as many staff members or managers for the nursing home may attempt to refuse blame for your loved one’s injuries or mood changes. It is important to gather as much evidence as you can, including medical documentation, and take these details to a lawyer. You should also consider moving your loved one to a facility where they may be more protected from abuse or neglect.

Your attorney can help you further investigate your case and bring charges against the nursing home, advocating for the rights of your loved one and holding those responsible accountable.

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Experiencing abuse or neglect in a nursing home is one of the worst things that can happen to your loved one, and you no doubt want to fight for your relative’s rights if this occurs. A knowledgeable Chicago, IL nursing home abuse attorney can help you pursue a case against a nursing home and work to hold a nursing home facility responsible for their actions.

Our attorneys at Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC have two decades of experience with nursing home law, and we have in-depth knowledge of what it takes to pursue a successful case against a nursing home facility in Illinois. Contact us at 312-236-6324 for a free consultation.