Why Does Elder Abuse Go Unreported?

Posted on behalf of Jeff Pitman on June 18, 2010 in Nursing Homes and Elder Rights
Updated on February 24, 2022

Many victims are reluctant to report abuse because they:

  • Might feel ashamed or embarrassed, particularly if a family member is the abuser
  • Are afraid the abuser will bet in trouble
  • Are afraid the abuse will get worse
  • Are unable to speak out due to dementia or other impairments
  • May be fearful of being thrown out

Get to know the staff who takes care of your family. Each time you visit your loved one, pay special attention to his/her condition and how he/she interacts with staff and his/her surroundings. Speak up when necessary. If you are not satisfied with the quality of care or if a preventable injury or condition has occurred, speak with the nurses, doctors, nursing home administrator and Ombudsman.

Whether the source of the abuse or neglect is staff or another resident, nursing homes and health care providers are aware that under no circumstances should a resident become the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse.

To report an instance of abuse, please the the Wisconsin Division of Quality Assurance at 608-266-8481 or click here.

If your loved one has become the victim of nursing home negligence, it’s important to have accurate information available to you, to help you decide how you would like to move forward. At the law office of PKSD, our nursing home abuse lawyers have a proven track record of success and have helped to recover millions in compensation for our clients. To contact a personal injury lawyer at our law firm today, complete and send the “Free Case Evaluation” form on this page or call us at .

PKSD – Est. 1999.

Back to top