NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYER IN ELMHURST, IL

Nursing homes can be short-term or long-term options for our elderly relatives when their health becomes too much of an issue to manage on their own. They provide housing, round the clock medical care, and nutrition. But what happens when the nursing home in question fails to provide a high level of care and attention to our loved ones?

WHAT IS NURSING HOME ABUSE?

Nursing home abuse may be as drastic as repeated physical harm to patients or as subtle as slight emotional abuse. But all types of abuse are serious and can lead to lasting consequences to health. Abuse can take many forms, including the following:

• Physical abuse can take a few forms, including active harm through hitting or pinching. Sometimes this can be unintentional because of neglect or overused restraints.

• Psychological abuse involves caregivers yelling, humiliating, or shaming patients.

• Financial exploitation occurs when caregivers take advantage of access to patient financial information by stealing or compromising their accounts or status.

• Sexual abuse involves unwanted sexual attention. Usually, this happens with patients who are cognitively compromised or have dementia.

• General neglect is a serious, often unintentional issue stemming from a lack of adequate staffing. Patients’ needs aren’t taken care of, including personal hygiene care or malnutrition. Neglect can often lead to other, serious symptoms including bed sores and infections.

• Abuse among residents occurs when one resident does harm to another. As a rule, patients should be protected from abuse by other residents.

WHAT SIGNS OF NURSING HOME ABUSE SHOULD I LOOK FOR?

Nursing home abuse can manifest in many forms, so it’s important to know that you may witness some or all of the following signs.

• Broken bones or fractures

• Bruising or cuts

• Frequent infections

• Dehydration

• Unexplained weight loss

• A lack of cleanliness or other poor physical appearance

• Bed sores

• Caregivers who hesitate to leave the patient alone with other people

• Refusing to eat

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SUSPECT NURSING HOME ABUSE?

If you suspect your loved ones are suffering from nursing home abuse, you have several options. Once you’ve ensured their safety and security, the next thing you should do in this situation is call an experienced attorney who understands the legal nuances surrounding nursing home abuse cases, including the statute of limitations.

When it comes to dealing with cases of abuse, your loved one’s health and safety is my primary concern. By quickly addressing the issue, you will not only help preserve their health but also limit the damage done by the neglect.

Call today to explore your options and learn more about how I can help you with your case.