Nursing Home Liability Lawyers
Nursing home abuse is tragic, but with the help of the right lawyer, you and your loved ones can get the compensation and closure you deserve. Read on to learn more about nursing home abuse, and see how a lawyer can make a difference.
1. Most Nursing Homes Are Safe – But Not All Of Them.
As of 2023, there were over 26,000 nursing homes in the United States – and most of these are safe and comfortable places for your elderly relatives. Unfortunately, it’s not a universal fact. Despite outward appearances, some nursing homes hide histories of abuse.
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), there are 5 million elder abuse cases every year. Up to 10% of people aged 60 and up have reported some kind of abuse, but only 1 in 24 cases are actually reported to the authorities.
2. There Are Different Types Of Nursing Home Abuse.
Nursing home abuse takes many forms. While most people assume abuse involves slapping or hitting, abusive staff at nursing homes may also resort to unnecessary or painful restraints. Emotional and sexual abuse can lead to serious trauma in loved ones who live in nursing homes, and in some cases serious abuse can lead to death.
Nursing home abuse also includes neglect. If a resident of a nursing home is neglected, it can cause emotional strain. And if that neglect involves malnutrition, it can lead to dangerous weight loss and further health difficulties.
3. You May Have To Do Some Detective Work.
If your loved one is suffering nursing home abuse, they may not be completely open about their experience. It can also be difficult to get one-on-one time with them when you visit. When you speak to your loved one, ask them plenty of questions about their nursing home, but also keep an eye out for any nonverbal communication.
An abused relative may not tell you that they’re experiencing abuse, but if they experience any sudden mood swings or changes in temperament, it could be a red flag. Check and see if their clothes are loose-fitting, and if they have access to a fridge, make sure there’s no molding or rotten food. It may be up to you to put the pieces together.
4. Your Loved One Can Get Justice.
Nursing home abuse is shocking, and if you suspect your loved one is experiencing abuse at the hands of uncaring or aggressive nursing home staff, you may have to get in touch with a lawyer to get real justice.
As nursing home liability lawyers like our friends at Norris Injury Law can tell you, it’s important to get in touch with a legal team sooner rather than later. Abuse is inexcusable, and it deserves investigation as soon as you hear about it.
5. Not All Lawyers Are Equal.
Not all nursing home abuse lawyers are created equal. Some are only interested in collecting a paycheck, and others only offer cookie-cutter solutions that may not deliver the results you’re looking for. When you’re shopping for a nursing home abuse lawyer, make sure they offer free consultations so you can see how committed they are to their clients.
Nursing home abuse can be frightening and overwhelming, both for your loved one, and for you. If you suspect a loved one is suffering from mistreatment at a nursing home, get in touch with an experienced nursing home lawyer in your area as soon as possible.