When your loved one needs additional care and support and you opt for a nursing home facility, you trust that they will provide comfort, care, and a safe environment. However, nursing home abuse and neglect does happen and is a problem that can have devastating consequences for elderly residents and their families. The protection of the elderly in nursing homes is a top priority and it is important to have experienced and compassionate attorneys on your side. Our legal team at Barney Hammond LLP, are here to make sure your loved one receives compensation for any damages and quality care moving forward.
It is essential that you understand the types of nursing home abuse and neglect that can occur and can recognize the signs. When you have that knowledge, you will be able to work with our team to pursue legal action. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home abuse victims and their families and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse and neglect can take various forms including: physical abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, financial exploitation, neglect of basic needs, and even sexual abuse. Physical abuse may involve hitting, pushing, restraining, or other forms of physical harm. Emotional abuse can manifest through verbal threats, humiliation, or isolation.
Financial exploitation occurs when caregivers or staff members exploit the resident’s finances or assets. Neglect can lead to inadequate nutrition, hygiene, or medical care. Sexual abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior.
Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect is the first step and is an important part of protecting your family member. If you see unexplained injuries, bruises, or fractures, that may be a sign of physical abuse. If you see changes of behavior in your loved one, like anxiety or withdrawal, that may be a sign of emotional abuse.
If you notice that they have lost important belongings or their accounts are depleted, financial abuse may be happening. Unexplained genital infections, bruising, or emotional withdrawal could indicate sexual abuse. And poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, or untreated medical issues can indicate neglect. Whatever is happening to your loved one, it is unacceptable and needs to be addressed and the lawyers at Barney Hammond LLP are here for you.
Common Reasons for Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse and neglect can occur due to various factors, including understaffing, inadequate training, lack of supervision, and even intentional malicious behavior by caregivers or staff members. Understaffing may lead to caregivers being overburdened, resulting in neglect or inadequate care for residents. Inadequate training can leave staff ill-equipped to handle the specific needs and challenges of elderly residents. Lack of supervision can create an environment where abusive behavior goes unchecked. Any of these reasons offered are not an excuse for your loved one suffering and under Illinois Law you have a right to pursue legal action.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Protect the Rights of Victims
Our compassionate and client-focused personal injury lawyers are essential in protecting the rights of nursing home abuse victims and their families. We have the experience and knowledge to investigate the abuse, gather evidence, and hold the nursing home facility accountable for their negligence. We work tirelessly to ensure that victims and their families receive fair compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial harm caused by the abuse or neglect.
Nursing home abuse and neglect are deeply concerning issues that require attention and action to protect elderly residents and hold facilities accountable. When you seek the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer, you can pursue legal recourse and hold negligent facilities responsible for their actions. Contact us today for a free consultation.