Abuse towards Elderly with Down syndrome in Assisted Living Centers
Many individuals in assisted living centers often suffer from some sort of mental disability and as a result may require much more assistance than other residents. Individuals with Down syndrome may have lower cognitive ability and many other developmental disabilities. As a result of these cognitive disabilities, these individuals are often the victims of abuse in both nursing homes and assisted living centers as well. The reason for this is because individuals with a cognitive, mental disability either do not recognize that they are in any sort of danger or does not have the ability to report any such incidents to staff members or other individuals.
There are many symptoms associated with Down syndrome. Most symptoms are cognitive symptoms; however, there are also other medical problems that can occur in individuals (primarily children) with Down syndrome. These can include:
- Congenital Heart Defects
- Thyroid Problems
- Intestinal Abnormalities
- Epileptic Disorders
- Respiratory Disorders
- Risk of Childhood Leukemia
While Down syndrome is a disease that primarily affects children, there are other individuals, including elderly individuals with the disease. Regardless whether individuals are elderly or younger individuals, they should not be put in a situation where they may be vulnerable to any form of abuse. Unfortunately, abuse does occur to both children and elderly people with Down syndrome. Prevention is not always possible but knowing some signs can help you and your loved ones with Down syndrome.
Some Signs of Physical Abuse:
- Bruises and swelling
- Bedsores
- Welts
- Cuts and scrapes
- Breakage of skin or bones
Some Signs of Emotional Abuse:
- Loss of interest in social activities
- Depression
- Withdrawal
- Shift in mood
- Uncontrollable crying
- Sudden shyness
It is the responsibility of the assisted living center to ensure that no abuse is taking place by being aware of these warning signs. If you notice any of these signs in your loved ones’ behavior, you should contact the senior staff members of the nursing home, or if necessary, contact law enforcement officers to notify them of any abuse taking place. Often abuse to individuals with Down syndrome goes unnoticed because the victims cannot report their abusers actions to anybody due to their cognitive disabilities. There is no reason for your loved ones to become a victim of any form of abuse, especially if they already suffer from some type of disability such as Down syndrome. Besides contacting staff members or law enforcement, you can also contact an Arizona nursing home Attorney who can assist you in legal matters pertaining to abuse or negligence in assisted living centers.
Contact an Arizona Assisted Living Abuse Attorney
Any form of abuse is unacceptable even if the patient suffers from a difficult disease. You and your family have rights. If you suspect that a family with Down syndrome has suffered from a form of abuse, contact an Arizona Attorney in the Maricopa County area. Damages can be collected for their emotional and physical suffering. For more information see www.nursinghomeadvocates.com.
