Reporting Nursing Home Abuse and When to Get a Lawyer Involved
Research has shown that more than 24% of nursing home residents in the United States have experienced abuse in one form or another. For someone whose loved one lives in a nursing home, this statistic can be very alarming. After all, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not someone you care about is safe in the place they call home. That said, nursing home abuse is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly.
If you suspect that your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home, it is important to take action right away. In this article, we will discuss how to report nursing home abuse and when to get a lawyer involved. We will also provide tips for finding the best lawyer for your situation.
The Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, but all of them involve some form of violation of an elderly person’s basic rights. Signs of nursing home abuse can include physical injuries such as bruises or broken bones, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. Some of the specific things you should look for include:
- Change in mood
- Loss of appetite
- Infections
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Bed sores or unexplained bruises
Unfortunately, elder abuse is often hidden behind closed doors making it difficult to detect. If you suspect that an elderly person is being abused, it is important to reach out for help. It’s also important to note that you should check in with your loved one regularly to observe how they are being treated.
How to Report Nursing Home Abuse
Anyone who suspects that a loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse should immediately contact the police or Adult Protective Services. You can contact a local elder abuse hotline or the police to make a report.
By speaking up, you can help to protect the elderly from further harm. It is important to have as much documentation as possible when making a report, so it is helpful to keep a record of any injuries, changes in behavior, or unexplained bills. If possible, it is also helpful to speak to other residents or family members who may have witnessed the abuse.
Once a report has been made, an investigation will be launched and the allegations should be taken seriously.
When to Involve a Lawyer in a Nursing Home Abuse Claim
When debating whether or not to hire a lawyer for a nursing home abuse claim, it is important to keep in mind that each situation is unique. In some cases, it may be possible to resolve the issue without legal involvement. However, if the nursing home refuses to take responsibility or adequately address the problem, it may be necessary to seek legal action.
Hiring a lawyer with experience in elder abuse may be the best way to ensure that justice is served. If you are unsure whether or not to hire a lawyer, you can always consult with one for advice. They will be able to assess your case and let you know what your best course of action would be.
A Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Gainesville You Can Trust
If you believe that you have a substantial case of nursing home abuse and would like to get a lawyer involved, we’re here to help. At Avera & Smith, we have decades of experience handling cases involving nursing home negligence in Gainesville and surrounding areas. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.