Nursing home residents are totally dependent upon their caretakers and the institution in which they live out their final days. Neglect and abuse of nursing home residents is a violation of the necessary trust families place in long-term care facilities and their workers. In fact, the two most common forms of elder abuse by caregivers in long-term care facilities are first, neglect and second, physical abuse. Although it is a growing problem in this country, it is widely underreported: nearly one third of elder care facilities in the United States have been cited for abuse.
Even if you selected the best care facility for your loved one, you might discover the disturbing signs of neglect or abuse. Many nursing homes are understaffed with unskilled workers who may not have had a thorough background check.
If you suspect something, follow up on it: talk to the staff, nursing supervisor, and your loved one’s doctor. Change your visiting times often to see the staff in action and know your rights. Careful monitoring and frequent visits protect vulnerable elders and can catch elder abusers before more harm can be done.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
· Physical abuse and neglect: Unexplained injuries, bruises, malnutrition, dehydration, bedsores, under- and overdoses of medication, unreasonable restraint, deprivation
· Emotional and mental abuse: Dramatic changes in personality, agitation, fearful behavior, timidity, withdrawal and isolation
· Sexual abuse: Unexplained bruising around genital areas, genital infections, torn underclothing
· Exploitation: Missing personal effects, sudden changes in finances, unpaid bills
Nursing Home Abuse and Personal Injury Law
When nursing home residents are victims of intentional abuse and neglect, they are entitled to hold responsible parties accountable under personal injury law. In some cases, nursing home abuse victims and their families are eligible to recover their financial losses and emotional losses.
If you are suspicious of the quality of care your loved one is receiving in a nursing home facility, contact us at Perey Law Group, PLLC. Our lawyers are experienced in elder abuse cases, including federal and state laws governing nursing facilities and patient rights. We offer free consultations and can advise you as to the best course of legal action.
Please fill out the form below to contact one of our experienced attorneys.
Perey Law Group, PLLC
1606 8th Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: (206) 443-7600
Fax: (206) 443-4785