Placing a loved one in a nursing home or assisted-living facility is a difficult decision, made with the hope of providing the best possible environment for a person unable to care for themselves. However, these facilities are not without their problems. Sadly, instances of patient mistreatment can occur, ranging from neglect to outright abuse. Protecting your family member’s well-being requires understanding the different forms of mistreatment and their signs.

Elder abuse in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities can take various forms. Physical abuse includes hitting, slapping or using restraints improperly. Neglect, on the other hand, involves failing to provide for basic needs such as hygiene, medication, hydration or adequate nutrition. Emotional or psychological abuse can manifest themselves as humiliation, verbal threats or isolation. Financial exploitation can also be present, such as misusing a resident's money or possessions. Sexual abuse is a horrific violation that can occur even in elder care settings.

Signs of mistreatment range from obvious to subtle. Here are red flags to watch for:

• Physical indications — Unexplained injuries, bruises or bedsores; sudden weight loss; poor hygiene; dehydration or malnourishment

• Behavioral changes — Withdrawal, depression, anxiety or fearfulness; increased agitation or confusion; changes in sleeping or eating habits

• Medication errors — Missed medications, incorrect dosages or side effects

• Unsanitary conditions — Dirty facilities, foul odors or a lack of proper infection control practices

• Financial discrepancies — Missing money or belongings, unexplained charges on bank statements or pressure to change a will

If you suspect your loved one is being mistreated, it's important to act swiftly. In Virginia, several legal remedies are available:

• Reporting suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services (APS) — This is a state agency that investigates reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults and takes corrective action.

• Filing a complaint with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) — The VDH licenses and regulates nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. They can investigate complaints and take enforcement action, including fines or closure of the facility.

• Bringing a civil lawsuit — You can pursue litigation against the nursing home or assisted-living facility to seek compensation for your loved one's injuries, pain and suffering.

An experienced nursing home injury attorney can be instrumental in helping you to enforce your legal options and to ensure your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve.

Pikrallidas & Probasco assists victims of nursing home neglect and abuse in legal actions throughout Virginia and Washington, D.C. We have offices in Fairfax, Manassas, Centreville and Front Royal. Call 703-267-2600 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.