What to Expect From a Nursing Home Neglect Case
When a family member moves into a nursing home, we trust the staff to provide compassionate, high-quality care. We never want to imagine our loved ones as victims of nursing home neglect or abuse. We expect the home to follow the state and federal regulations designed to prevent such atrocities from happening. Unfortunately, the sad truth is that many nursing homes and assisted living facilities fall shamefully short of these expectations.
What is Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing home neglect and abuse can take many forms. Abuse can be physical, psychological, verbal, sexual or financial. Neglect is when the facility fails to meet residents’ needs regarding medical care, personal hygiene, nutrition, and safety.
Furthermore, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define elder abuse as the neglect and/or abuse of persons 60 and older “by a caregiver or another person in a relationship involving an expectation of trust that causes or creates a serious risk of harm…”
How Common is Nursing Home Neglect?
Studies by the National Center on Elder Abuse found 44% of nursing home residents had been abused. These studies showed nursing home neglect to be even more rampant. Of those surveyed, 95% reported they had been neglected in some way or had seen others neglected.
It is also important to know that many more cases of nursing home neglect and abuse are not reported. A New York-based study found there were 24 unreported cases for every case that was reported to authorities.
What are the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect?
Consequently, elders who experienced even modest abuse have a 300% higher risk of death compared to those who have not been abused.
Here are some common signs of nursing home neglect:
- Unexplained bruises
- Bedsores
- Increased anxiety or fearfulness
- Depression
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Problems sleeping
- Weight loss that is not intentional
- Soiled clothing
- Poor hygiene, such as hair that is not washed
- Decreased mobility or strength
What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse
Victims of neglect or abuse may not talk about what is happening because they fear retaliation from the staff. Because of this, family members need to be extra vigilant when visiting their loved ones.
Here are some suggestions to follow if you believe someone is suffering from nursing home neglect or abuse:
- Document any signs you notice (see above list). Make notes that include the date and what you observed. Be as specific as possible. Take photos of bruises, unclean living areas or safety hazards.
- Ask questions. If your loved one is fearful or agitated, ask them what is causing them to feel this way. If you notice a bruise, ask them what happened. Many people who may not volunteer information will answer direct questions if asked.
- When you visit, talk to family members of other residents if possible. Ask if they have noticed similar symptoms of neglect or abuse.
- Call an experienced and reputable nursing home neglect law firm to discuss your concerns. A qualified attorney will help ensure the safety of your loved one and obtain the compensation your family deserves
Nursing home neglect law is complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.
Call 1-800-MALPRACTICE today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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