Nursing Home Abuse – What Steps Should You Take?

A nursing home is a place where the elderly should be safe. Sadly, there are a significant amount of nursing home abuse cases reported every year. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, pay special attention to the way they are treated. There are many different types of nursing home abuse. A few are neglect, false imprisonment, psychological or emotional abuse and financial abuse. If you suspect nursing home abuse, you should take the necessary steps to handle the problem.

Verify the elder’s story – Make sure they are telling the whole truth. If there are signs of physical abuse such as bruising, dehydration, restraint marks, bedsores, over medication or any other signs, you need to make sure you document the injuries. Take pictures and try to get information from the other residents who are able to give it.

Inform the authorities – Report elderly abuse to the authorities. Show them the documentation you have gathered along with any pictures you have taken. It is important that the authorities are involved to make sure no other injuries take place.

Consider hiring an attorney – If you suspect nursing home abuse, you need to consult with an attorney who is experienced in personal injury claims. An experienced attorney will be able to tell you if your case is worth pursuing during the consultation.

Nursing homes are required to take good care of their residents. If the nursing home fails to follow state regulations resulting in abuse or neglect, you may be able to sue the nursing home. No amount of compensation will ever make up for the abuse your loved one has endured, but taking the necessary steps to file action against the nursing home may be what it takes to ensure that your loved one isn’t an victim of nursing home abuse again.