Nursing home cases are never simple. Multiple parties are often involved, and it can be difficult to uncover the truth. Let us assure you that this truth is worth fighting for. We trust our loved ones to individuals who promise to care for them. When those promises are broken, it can be the ultimate betrayal for both you and your loved one who is experiencing the abuse.
Nursing home claims are often more complex than standard medical malpractice cases, and it is imperative that you have experienced attorneys for nursing home abuse on your side to help you walk through the process of seeking justice and compensation for the way your loved one has been treated. If you are unsure about whether abuse has actually occurred or if it is compensable, the team of nursing home abuse lawyers at D’Amore Law Group can conduct an independent investigation into your claim and help you find answers.
Who Is at Risk for Nursing Home Abuse?
Most of the time, we consider nursing home abuse an issue that impacts only the elderly, but it is worth mentioning there are a lot of care facilities that host residents with special needs who may not be elderly. With many different demographics of people who reside in nursing homes, it is not surprising that some are easier targets than others. These are typically residents who suffer from cognitive issues that make them susceptible to being confused or less aware than others. Those who have Dementia, Alzheimer’s or difficulty communicating have a harder time identifying abuse. Likewise, those who do not have family members or loved ones who check on them regularly may be more prone to nursing home abuse.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
There are multiple types of nursing home abuse, all of which could have serious consequences for the health and well-being of your loved one. One report found that elders who have been abused have a 300% higher risk of death when compared to those who have not been mistreated. Here are some common types of abuse.
- Physical abuse,
- Emotional abuse,
- Abandonment,
- Sexual abuse,
- Financial abuse,
- Neglect, and
- Self-neglect.
Your nursing home abuse lawyer can help you understand what kind of abuse may be occurring and the best way to address it so that your loved one can receive the care they need going forward.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can be difficult to detect depending on the nature of the abuse and your loved one’s ability to recognize that they are being mistreated or taken advantage of. The best thing you can do to prevent nursing home abuse is to check in on them often and look out for any signs of abuse. Here are some of the most common signs,
Falls
Nursing home staff are trained and required to monitor residents at all times whether they are stationary or moving about. Depending on the mobility of your loved one, nursing home staff may be required to help them in and out of bed and while walking around the premises. The premises should be adequately maintained for ease of use which means handicap ramps, no-slip floors and other standard precautions that would be reasonably expected. Falls can be painful and also life-changing for elderly residents. If your loved one has fallen, it is important to understand how that was allowed to occur.
Bedsores
Another name for bedsores is pressure ulcers, These occur when immobile and bedridden patients are not moved or turned in their beds for a significant period of time. They are painful for residents and should not occur if the patient is being moved regularly. Awareness of bedsores and how to move patients should be a standard part of nursing home staff training.
Complaints of Hunger or Thirst
It is true that some patients may just generally be more thirsty or hungry than others, but in some cases, it can indicate that the patient is not receiving proper nutrition or hydration. Weight loss can also be an indicator that they are not eating enough. Insufficient food and water can lead to rapid deterioration of health and should be taken very seriously.
Residents Left Unattended
In most cases, nursing home residents should not be permitted to leave the premises or wander without supervision. Those with cognitive impairments may find it difficult to get back to where they were, which can be disorienting and traumatic.
Incorrect Medication or Dosage
Over or under-medicating anyone can have serious consequences. Nursing home staff are charged with ensuring that residents are properly medicated. This means carefully reading labels and keeping a tight schedule. Changes to medication can be harmful and even fatal.
Unexplained Injuries
Elderly people often sustain injuries much easier than others, so bruises may not be proof of actual neglect, but they should be explainable. These could be warning signs that caregivers are handling your loved one too roughly, or they are trying to make your loved one do something against their will.
Missing Possessions
Nursing home residents are often allowed to have some of their favorite possessions with them. This can be things like photos of grandchildren which are not of monetary value, or they could be expensive, meaningful jewelry or trinkets. Nursing home staff generally have access to the resident’s room and possessions. It is important to take note of things that go missing and ask questions.
Infections
Unclean nursing home facilities or untreated medical conditions can lead to infections. Staff members are trained to notice signs of infection and should ensure that the resident receives treatment immediately to prevent it from becoming a serious issue. Failure to recognize an infection can often be attributed to neglectful care.
Experienced Attorneys for Nursing Home Abuse
The knowledgeable team at D’Amore Law Group has over 30 years of experience and has handled over 2000 cases for injured victims, including those who have suffered nursing home abuse. If you or someone you know has experienced nursing home abuse, please consider reaching out. We offer a free no-obligation initial case consultation and can help you understand the next steps for your claim and how to seek meaningful recovery.
