More Than 44% of Nursing Home Residents Experience Abuse
Nursing home residents are among the most vulnerable members of our society. None of us want to imagine our loved ones being mistreated by those who are supposed to keep them safe. Yet an alarming number of defenseless elderly people are suffering from abuse and neglect. If this is happening to someone you care about, it’s time to consult an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer.
How Common Is Nursing Home Abuse?
The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act (210 ILCS 45) protects residents from abuse and neglect, including financial exploitation. In addition, the federal Nursing Home Reform Act protects the rights of elderly people in facilities participating with Medicare and Medicaid. Unfortunately, these protections are not enough to guarantee the safety and well-being of these deserving individuals.
Here are some facts about the incidence of abuse and neglect in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities:
- 44% of nursing home residents reported they had been abused, according to studies by the National Center on Elder Abuse.
- 95% of the people surveyed said they had been neglected or had seen other residents neglected.
- 50% of nursing home staff members admitted they had mistreated nursing home residents in some way.
Furthermore, experts estimate the actual rate of abuse is 24 times greater than statistics show. This is because the majority of victims do not report incidents of abuse or neglect to social services or legal authorities. Some residents fear retaliation, while others have dementia or other cognitive impairments that make communication difficult.
Nursing home abuse attorneys help family members determine what is happening and whether legal action is required. They will ensure your loved one’s safety while obtaining the compensation your family deserves.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Elderly nursing home residents with dementia have the greatest risk of being physically and/or psychologically abused. Caregivers become more easily frustrated with these individuals. Therefore, they are more likely to reprimand them harshly or even use physical force.
In addition, these unfortunate victims of elder abuse have a three times greater risk of dying prematurely. They are also more liable to become ill and suffer psychological consequences.
Is Neglect a Form of Abuse?
Yes. Some abuse is obvious, such as hitting a resident or using restraints as a punishment. Other types of abuse are not so obvious. Neglect falls under this category.
Here are some examples of neglect that can be just as harmful as physical or emotional abuse:
- Failing to re-position a bedridden resident on a regular basis, which often results in bedsores and/or infections
- Neglecting to offer fluids throughout the day, resulting in dehydration
- Failing to change a resident’s soiled clothing or bedding when necessary
- Failing to provide proper supervision, leading to falls and injuries
- Neglecting to follow a resident’s prescribed dietary plan, resulting in malnutrition or illness
Nursing home employees who abuse residents, along with the administrators who allow it, must be stopped. A knowledgeable nursing home abuse lawyer knows what it takes to hold those responsible accountable for their heinous actions. If you suspect a loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, our caring and highly qualified attorneys are ready to help.
Nursing home neglect law is complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.
Call 1-800-MALPRACTICE today for a free no-obligation consultation.
Do You Have a Case?Sources:
- https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2018/info_flyers/fact_sheets/2018NCVRW_OlderAdults_508_QC.pdf
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/nursing-home-abuse-statistics-data.html
- http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=021000450HArt%2E+II+Pt%2E+1&ActID=1225&ChapterID=21&SeqStart=4200000&SeqEnd=6350000