Nursing home residents and their loved ones expect long-term care facilities to provide reliable care in a safe environment. Sadly, many nursing homes provide substandard care, which often causes medical complications, social isolation and even death.
Every year, elder abuse affects up to 2 million Americans aged 65 years and older, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health. This abuse takes many forms including emotional abuse, financial exploitation and even sexual violence.
If your elderly loved one was a victim of nursing home abuse, turn to Morris Bart, LLC. A personal-injury attorney in Monroe will help you pursue justice and compensation from that at-fault staff member or facility.
Our legal team will evaluate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses and help you fight for the highest possible settlement. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
5 Common Symptoms of Nursing Home Abuse
The National Council on Aging estimates that senior citizens who suffer abuse are at a 300 percent higher risk of dying compared to those who are well looked-after. All it takes is one act of physical force, a medication mistake, or neglect to cause a fatal injury.
Unfortunately, many cases of elder abuse go unreported because the victims are too afraid to take action. If your family member is in a long-term care facility, it is critical that you visit him or her often and look for these signs of mistreatment:
- Bruises, cuts or burns;
- Depression or withdrawal from social activities;
- Unexpected adjustments to his or her will;
- Bedsores, missed medication, poor hygiene or weight loss; and
- Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Common Causes of Nursing Home Abuse
There are many reasons why a caregiver might choose to abuse or neglect a resident. Often, the mistreatment is a method of getting a resident to cooperate. Other times, such as in cases of financial exploitation, the caregiver takes advantage of a resident for monetary gain. Nursing home neglect is particularly common in facilities that are understaffed or that hire poorly trained caregivers.
What Should I Do If My Family Member Was Abused in a Nursing Home?
If your loved one was abused or neglected at a nursing home, it is critical that you take immediate action. This not only will put a stop to the mistreatment, but it could save other residents from the same fate.
Contact the police if someone is in immediate danger. Then, report the incident to the Office of Aging & Adult Services by calling 800-898-4910.
Finally, consult an injury lawyer to find out if you or your family member has grounds for a claim against the at-fault staff member or facility. If the abuse happened in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC.
A Monroe personal-injury attorney will help you claim compensation for medical bills and other damages. If your family member died due to nursing home abuse, our legal team will help you file a wrongful death lawsuit. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
