Nursing homes are supposed to be places of care, compassion, and attention. Indeed, when a person chooses to move a loved one into a nursing home, they do so because they believe that is where the elderly person will most benefit. Unfortunately, nursing homes are often underfunded, understaffed, and the workplace of those who do not care about patients as much as they should.
If you believe that your loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect, our Nokomis and Litchfield nursing home abuse attorneys at the law Offices of Glenn & West, LLC can help. Contact today for a free initial consultation.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can take many different forms. Types of nursing home abuse include:
Physical Abuse
Hitting, kicking, biting, improperly restraining, improper use of medication, and other acts of force taken against a nursing home resident constitute physical abuse. Signs of physical abuse include bruises, burn or bite marks, broken bones, and other indications of physical harm.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse occurs when a nursing home staff member engages in sexual conduct with a nursing home resident that is unwanted. This can vary from showing nude photos or taking nude photos, inappropriate touching, or even sexual assault or rape.
Psychological & Emotional Abuse
Not all types of abuse are physical. Psychological abuse is a serious concern in nursing homes as well. Bullying or teasing a resident, isolating a resident from others, threatening a resident, neglecting a resident, and more can all constitute emotional abuse. Signs of abuse might include emotional and behavioral changes, withdrawal, or fear.
Financial Exploitation
If a nursing home staff member takes advantage of a nursing home resident for financial benefits, they are engaging in financial exploitation. Signs to watch out for include major changes to a resident’s financial situation, such as changes to an estate plan, large cash withdrawals, new lines of credit, etc.
Nursing Home Neglect
In addition to nursing home abuse, another problem that can be very dangerous to a nursing home resident is nursing home neglect. Nursing home neglect occurs when a nursing home resident does not receive the level of care that they are entitled to, resulting in injuries or health complications. For example, failing to regularly move a nursing home resident who is bedridden can result in pressure ulcers, or failing to sit with a nursing home resident and assist with meals can result in malnutrition.
Get Legal Help Today
If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, you have rights. We strongly recommend keeping a thorough record of all signs of abuse as well as conversations and interactions you have with the nursing home resident related to abuse. Our nursing home abuse lawyers in Nokomis and Litchfield, IL can help you to build your claim, bring forth your case, and hold the nursing home liable for the abuse. Reach our law firm by phone or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.
