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 Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Personal Injury

Many families entrust nursing homes to provide their elderly loved ones with compassionate, professional, and dedicated care to meet their daily needs. Unfortunately, due to their vulnerability and limited ability to defend themselves or communicate effectively, cases of abuse and neglect towards the elderly have been reported, often unbeknownst to their families for months or even years. In this section, we aim to present crucial facts and offer valuable advice on seeking legal assistance in such cases.

Facts and Statistics

By understanding these facts and statistics, you can better understand the seriousness of the issue and the need to take action when elder abuse or neglect is suspected. Our ultimate goal is to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of our elderly loved ones.

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Nursing home abuse can take various forms, including physical abuse (such as hitting or restraining), emotional abuse (such as intimidation or isolation), sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect (such as withholding food or mismanaging medication).

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Nursing home abuse and neglect is an alarming issue that affects a significant number of elderly individuals. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), approximately 5 million seniors experience abuse each year.

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A report from the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC) reveals that about 29% of elder abuse cases involve physical abuse, 22% originate from resident-to-resident interactions, 21% involve psychological abuse, 14% entail neglect, 7% encompass sexual abuse, and the remaining 7% consist of financial exploitation.

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It is important to note that these statistics may not capture the full extent of the problem, as elder abuse is frequently underreported. Many victims may fear retaliation, lack awareness of their rights, or face communication barriers that hinder reporting.

Most Common Injuries

 

Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers): Bedsores are a prevalent injury in nursing homes and are often a sign of neglect. These painful ulcers develop when residents are left in one position for extended periods, leading to damage to the skin and underlying tissue.

Falls: Due to physical frailty and inadequate supervision, falls are a common occurrence in nursing homes. These accidents can result in fractures, head injuries, and other severe complications, particularly for elderly individuals who may have pre-existing health conditions.

Malnutrition and dehydration: Neglect can lead to inadequate nutrition and hydration for residents. Malnutrition and dehydration can cause significant health issues, compromising the immune system and leading to weakness, cognitive decline, and other complications.

Medication errors: Mismanagement of medications can occur in nursing homes, leading to overdoses, missed doses, or the administration of the wrong medication. Such errors can have serious consequences for residents, including adverse reactions and worsening of their medical conditions.

How to Proceed When Involved or Hurt in a Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Ensure safety

If you or your loved one is in immediate danger, contact emergency services for assistance. The priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individual.

Document evidence

Gather any evidence related to the abuse or neglect, including photographs of injuries, written records of incidents, and any relevant documentation such as medical records or facility reports.

Report the abuse

Contact the appropriate authorities to report the abuse or neglect. This may involve notifying local law enforcement, adult protective services, and the state’s regulatory agency overseeing nursing homes.

Seek medical attention:

It is crucial to have a healthcare professional evaluate and treat any injuries resulting from abuse or neglect. They can document the injuries and provide necessary medical care while also serving as a critical source of evidence.

Call us at

(954) 664-0339

We will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, file a claim, and pursue compensation for the injuries, medical expenses, and other damages. Also, we will deal with every piece of paperwork.

How Can We Support You?

At Christina Kalin Law Office, you will have the support of professional personal injury lawyers that will work to ensure you receive the best possible compensation. We will also refer you to a top-quality medical provider to guarantee that your recovery is in the best hands. 

 

Your rights are our priority.

Contact us today, and we will review your case for free.

 

Please note that every personal injury case is unique; therefore, the information provided here is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. For personalized advice, call us, and we will ensure you have the precise information for your case.