P&N BLOG | What To Do If You Suspect a Loved One is the Victim of Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

As our loved ones age, we often need to consider nursing homes or long-term care facilities to ensure their safety and well-being. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect are all too common, and it can be challenging to know what to do if you suspect that your loved one is a victim.

Nursing home abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Neglect can also occur when residents are not provided with the care they need to maintain their health and well-being. If you suspect that your loved one is the victim of abuse or neglect in a nursing home, it’s essential to take action immediately.

Here are the steps you should take if you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect:

Observe and Document the Signs of Abuse or Neglect

The first step is to observe and document any signs of abuse or neglect. Keep a detailed record of any injuries, bruises, or other physical signs of abuse, as well as any changes in your loved one’s behavior or emotional state.

Some common signs of abuse or neglect include:

– Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, or cuts

– Bedsores or other signs of neglect

– Sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or fear

– Unusual financial transactions or missing personal belongings

– Poor hygiene or malnutrition

It’s essential to document these signs thoroughly with photographs, videos, and written descriptions. Be sure to include the date and time of each incident, as well as the names of any staff members involved.

Report Your Suspicions to the Nursing Home Administration

Once you have documented the signs of abuse or neglect, you should report your suspicions to the nursing home administration immediately. Ask to speak with the nursing home administrator or the director of nursing and present your evidence.

If you feel uncomfortable reporting your suspicions to the nursing home administration, you can contact the Illinois Department of Public Health. They investigate nursing home abuse and neglect and will take the necessary steps to ensure that your loved one is safe.

Consult with an Attorney

Consulting with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.Our attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. can guide you through the process of filing a complaint and pursuing legal action if necessary.

Consider Moving Your Loved One to Another Facility

If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected, you may want to consider moving them to another nursing home or long-term care facility. This may help to ensure their safety and well-being while legal proceedings are underway.

Follow Up and Monitor the Situation

Once you have reported your suspicions and taken the necessary steps to ensure your loved one’s safety, it’s essential to follow up and monitor the situation closely. Schedule regular visits and maintain open communication with the nursing home staff to ensure that your loved one is receiving the care they need.

If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, it’s essential to take action immediately. Document any signs of abuse or neglect, report your suspicions to the nursing home administration or the Illinois Department of Public Health, consult with an attorney, consider moving your loved one to another facility, and follow up and monitor the situation closely.

Remember, nursing home abuse and neglect are serious issues, and it’s important to take action to protect your loved ones. By being vigilant and taking action when necessary, you can help ensure that your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve in their later years.

If you suspect that your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse and neglect and would like to speak with one of our attorneys, call/text us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website.

This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.