Placing a loved one in a nursing home is anything but easy. However, there can be comfort in knowing that the facility will help ensure your elderly loved one is well cared for and is in good hands. However, all these positive thoughts can go out the window when you notice depreciated health or injuries on your loved one.
It can be hard to accept; however, there can be indications of nursing home abuse or neglect. Thus, if you suspect that this is the case, it is important to understand that there are legal steps you can take to protect the rights of your loved one.
Possible signs of nursing home abuse
No one want to believe that their elderly loved one is being neglected or abused, which in turn can make it difficult for you to spot signs or accept that it is occurring. Thus, it is important to become aware of these potential signs, so you are equipped with this knowledge and ability to take action.
Possible signs of nursing home abuse or neglect can include sudden weight loss, bedsores, injuries from falls, dehydration, malnutrition, withdrawn, changes in behavior, lack of personal hygiene, changes to their appearance, limited exchanges with staff, limited socialization with residents and hazards in their living environment, such as poor lighting, slippery floors and unsafe equipment or furniture.
Taking action
If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse, neglect or elder abuse, it is important to understand that you have rights and options to take legal action. But prior to filing any action, you could address the matter with the facility to determine is a resolve can be reached. However, this is not always an option or a suitable step to take. Thus, it might be an essential first step to remove your loved one form the facility.
If filing a legal action is in the best interest of your elderly loved one, it is possible to file a civil claim. This not only holds the nursing home and their employees accountable for the conduct and harms suffered, but it also assesses the harms, damages and losses suffered. In turn, this could help with the recovery of compensation to address these harms.
A claim of nursing home abuse or neglect can be an emotional and difficult step to take. Therefore, it is important to understand the matter fully so you can make a well-informed decision.