Nursing home abuse refers to harm caused to residents by caregivers or others in long-term care facilities. The abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. If not stopped, the abuse can lead to severe health issues or death.
Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is prevalent due to a variety of factors, such as:
Under Staffing: Too few staff members to adequately care for residents.
Inadequate Training: Staff may not be properly trained to handle the complex needs of residents.
Burnout: High stress and workload due to understaffing can lead to staff exhaustion, impacting their ability to provide care.
Negligent Hiring: Failure to properly vet staff can lead to hiring individuals who may be prone to abusive behavior.
Financial Constraints: Nursing home companies that prioritize profits over patients.
Lack of Oversight: Insufficient monitoring and enforcement of standards can allow abuse to go unchecked.
Systemic Issues: An environment that does not prioritize resident dignity and safety.
Lack of Accountability: When abusive behavior is not addressed, it can perpetuate a cycle of abuse.
Isolation of Residents: Limited contact with family or outsiders can make it easier for abuse to remain hidden.
Addressing a nursing home abuse case demands expertise and dedication. Our law firm is committed to protecting the rights and dignity of frail nursing home residents, leveraging our experience to challenge abuse and secure justice for victims and their families. If you suspect nursing home abuse, we’re here to help, offering the support and legal expertise needed to confront these serious issues head-on.
What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?
It’s uncommon for a nursing home facility to inform families about harm or neglect to their loved ones. Nursing home staff often mislead families to prevent them from discovering the truth about the abuse. Therefore, it usually falls upon family members to discover the neglect and take action to end the abuse.
Ensure Immediate Safety: If you believe your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse, immediately secure them. If they are injured, call 9-1-1 or take them to the hospital. For uninjured patients, consider moving them out of the facility and to a safe location.
Report to Authorities: Alert local law enforcement or adult protective services to the elder abuse or neglect so they can start an investigation.
Document the Abuse: Collect and record any signs of abuse, including photographs, detailed notes and timelines, and relevant information.
Medical Evaluation: Obtain a professional medical assessment to document injuries or health issues resulting from the abuse. Tell the doctor you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect.
Consult a Specialist Attorney: Contact a law firm specializing in nursing home abuse cases for legal guidance and to explore potential actions to hold the abusers accountable.
When you suspect nursing home abuse, taking decisive action to protect your loved one is crucial. Vital steps include securing their immediate safety, reporting the situation to authorities, documenting any evidence of abuse, seeking medical evaluation, and consulting with a specialist attorney.
These actions not only safeguard the well-being of your loved one but also help hold negligent parties accountable. If you’re facing such a distressing situation, seeking professional legal help can offer a pathway to justice and peace of mind.
If you suspect your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse, contact us today!