More than one million people are living in nursing homes in America, which means it’s likely that a family member of yours will need to find a home at some point. Before you put your parent or grandparent in a nursing facility, make sure you understand what nursing home abuse is and what you can do about it. Here’s everything you need to know.
Nursing home abuse takes many different shapes.
There are several different types of nursing home and elder abuse. A resident might experience home neglect if the staff members don’t provide for his or her basic needs. Refusing to provide healthcare, like ignoring the need to visit a medical center in Staten Island, and neglecting to provide a resident with food and water are just two examples of neglect. Neglect accounts for 15.3% of elder abuse complaints and it can take many forms. A senior might also experience sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, or financial abuse.
If your family member is in a nursing facility, be on the lookout for common signs of elder abuse. One in 10 seniors are a victim of abuse, so you must stay vigilant and keep your loved one’s best interest in mind. Maybe he or she suddenly has less money than previously. Perhaps you notice bruises or bedsores. If your loved one suddenly begins to lose weight, it might be a sign that the staff members have stopped providing food.
Seniors are vulnerable and unfortunately, corrupt people will take advantage of them. In many cases, it’s family members who perpetrate elder abuse, most often adult children or spouses. Monitor your loved one’s visits, bank account, and appearance. Staying watchful will help you notice any signs of abuse and take the proper action.
A nursing home attorney can get justice.
If your family member has suffered elder abuse in a nursing facility, a nursing home abuse attorney can get justice and financial compensation. An attorney might be needed if your loved one has not received the proper care in the home. He or she might be suffering from malnutrition or dehydration, could be a victim of physical or financial abuse, or might have even passed away due to the facility’s negligence. Any form of abuse is a good reason to call a professional.
Many state and federal laws protect the elderly population. The Federal Nursing Home Care Reform Act of 1987 and the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act ensure that your loved ones will be properly treated while in a facility. Unfortunately, the law is not always followed and you may need to take action if you notice the signs of abuse. In Illinois, you can report abuse to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). State employees will conduct an investigation to see what occurred in the facility. The employees will then write a report detailing their findings. This report can help your legal team make a case.
To receive compensation for any negligence or abuse, your attorneys will have to prove that your loved one was not properly cared for. They will show that he or she was injured as a result of the responsible party’s actions. Since each case is different, the financial compensation varies from case to case. The factors that affect compensation are the resident’s age, the facility’s insurance and amount of involvement in care, and the extent of the injuries. Your attorneys can help you understand your legal claim and the potential outcomes.
If your family member is the victim of abuse at the hands of home staff members, seek justice. Skilled lawyers will help you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.
