How To Handle Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home neglect is a pervasive problem in the United States, affecting untold numbers of older adults and others who need around-the-clock medical care each year. Nursing home neglect is different from nursing home abuse in that there is no intent to harm a particular resident; rather, an injury results from a nursing home employee failing to provide the level of care that he or she should be providing.
Instances of nursing home neglect can include forgetting to give a resident his or her medication, ignoring a resident for a significant period of time, failing to bathe a resident, or failing to provide for a resident’s basic needs, like food, water, or a clean environment.
Recognizing The Signs Of Nursing Home Neglect
Part of the reason it is so hard to determine just how many people are affected by nursing home neglect is that a significant number of cases may go unreported. As a result, it is incumbent upon the family members and loved ones of nursing home residents to familiarize themselves with common signs of nursing home neglect so that they may take action on behalf of their loved ones. Some of the more common signs of nursing home neglect include the following:
- Significant weight loss
- Unexplained injuries
- Bed sores
- Infections
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Emotional withdrawal
- Depression
- Dental problems
- Untreated medical conditions
- Malnutrition
If you recognize any of these signs when visiting your loved one in a nursing home, you should bring the matter to the attention of the facility manager immediately. If you feel that your loved one is in immediate danger, call local law enforcement. Any instance of suspected abuse should also be reported to the state agency responsible for the regulation of nursing homes, which in Illinois is the Department of Public Health. Finally, call a nursing home neglect law firm to discuss your options.
Speak With A Lawyer About Your Case
Nursing home neglect can result in serious injuries, both physical and emotional. Fortunately, victims are often able to recover and hold long-term care facilities responsible for the negligent actions of their employees. The Proline Legal Attorneys represent nursing home neglect victims across Chicagoland. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call our offices at 844-646-4400 or send us an email.