logo

Call Now:

(312) 609-0400

24/7
Call Us for Free Consultation

Call Now: (312) 609-0400

Search
Close this search box.

High Number of Nursing Home Residents Abused by Other Residents.

Angry senior woman verbally abusing senior man in nursing home

or fill out the Contact Form

Nursing home abuse is all too common in Illinois, and a recent study indicates that a great number of these cases are at the hands of other residents. With so much focus placed on abuse by staff, the dynamic between patients is often overlooked by advocates for the elderly.

Angry senior woman verbally abusing senior man in nursing home

How Common is Resident to Resident Abuse?

A recent U.S. study indicates that one in every five nursing home residents have experienced physical or verbal mistreatment by other residents. Over 2,000 nursing home residents participated in the study and 407 were involved in at least one instance of abuse during the four-week study period. Being taunted verbally accounted for around 45% of cases, with physical assaults making up 26%.

Medical professionals suggest that placing large groups of people with dementia and other neurodegenerative illnesses into communal living situations can naturally lead to conflict. Roommates are at particular risk when placed with patients with such issues. Reported incidences include being run over by a wheelchair, going through other’s belongings, name-calling, physical violence and sexual assault. This unwelcome behavior can lead to physical or psychological suffering.

Preventing Nursing Home Abuse

Alzheimer’s experts recommend certain steps which can lower the chance of resident to resident abuse. These recommendations include:

  • Limiting distractions such as blinking or flashing lights, loud noises, television and crowds, which could become triggers to abuse behavior.
  • Offering opportunities for relaxing activities.
  • Changing activities when aggression begins to form.
  • Playing soothing music.
  • Training staff to respond to, rather than ignore yelling, which can be another trigger for aggression.

Overcrowding in nursing homes can also contribute to the likelihood of abuse by residents. The fewer patients that are packed into small areas, the less likely that abusive situations will occur.

Illinois now allows certain measures to protect the interest of nursing home patients, including cameras, which families may place in their rooms. Simple changes, like improved lighting and noise-proofing, and proper staff training on the issue can make a big difference when it comes to prevention. With more research, more solutions are being developed to create more positive living environments for all nursing home residents.

When abuse of a nursing home resident is suspected, consulting with a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney can provide answers about liability and possible compensation for victims.

Share This Article

As the founder of the firm, Neal has devoted his life to working for the worker. His achievements are numerous and beyond reproach. He is most proud of his work in helping clients obtain valuable benefits, such as a wheelchair ramp to his home or lifetime medical care.

or fill out the Contact Form

As the founder of the firm, Neal has devoted his life to working for the worker. His achievements are numerous and beyond reproach. He is most proud of his work in helping clients obtain valuable benefits, such as a wheelchair ramp to his home or lifetime medical care.

Related Articles

Depressed senior man sitting on bench. Nursing home neglect
Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Nursing Home Neglect: Is This Silent Killer Lurking in Your Loved One’s Home?

Nursing home neglect is on the rise in Chicago, Illinois, with residents reporting emotional abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Common signs of neglect include lack of basic amenities, unclean environment, unexplained changes in behavior, and isolation.

Cropped of female social worker helping senior woman to walk with walker at home. nursing home laws and regulations
Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

How Nursing Home Laws and Regulations Protect Residents in Illinois

The Department of Health in Illinois (IDPH) conducts annual inspections to ensure care facilities observe state-specific nursing home laws and regulations. On the other hand, CMS ensures that nursing homes that receive Medicare and Medicaid funding comply with federal regulations, like the Nursing Home Reform Act.

A group of seniors smiling together while in a retirement home
Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

What Are a Nursing Home Resident’s Rights?

The Nursing Home Reform Act is a federal law that was passed in 1987 and established a set of minimum standards of care for nursing homes that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs. It requires states to enforce these standards through regular inspections and monitoring.

Get a FREE Consultation:
We want to earn your business.

    Lawyers logos
    Lawyers logos