P&N BLOG | Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Nursing home abuse and neglect is an issue affecting numerous families annually. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), up to 5,000,000 individuals fall victim to elder abuse each year. This is why it is crucial to understand the intricacies surrounding nursing home abuse and neglect. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., our experienced trial attorneys specialize in assisting individuals seeking justice for their loved ones who may have suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect. 

Distinguishing Abuse from Neglect in a Nursing Home Setting

A frequent misconception regarding nursing home abuse and neglect is the notion that abuse solely encompasses physical harm occurring within long-term care facilities. Contrary to this belief, neglect constitutes a form of abuse as well. Even instances of inadvertent neglect can be abusive, with the absence of malicious intent failing to absolve the facility and its staff from liability. Accidents such as administering incorrect medication dosages or providing the wrong medication by mistake can yield severe, life-altering consequences.

Neglect extends beyond these scenarios to encompass staffing deficiencies, inadequate training, and the failure of facilities to conduct thorough employee screenings and background checks. Furthermore, neglect encompasses the failure to promptly report injuries, illnesses, or incidents to family members or guardians. Other manifestations of neglect span medical, social, and emotional neglect, as well as the refusal of fundamental living necessities and neglect of personal hygiene.

Abuse transcends physical injury alone, encompassing emotional, sexual, and financial maltreatment as well.

Identifying Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Detecting instances of nursing home abuse and neglect can prove challenging, but several common warning signs and symptoms merit attention. These include:

– Abrupt onset of aggression, anxiety, agitation, or significant shifts in personality

– Manifestations of physical harm such as bedsores, fractures, bruises, and burns

– Indicators of malnutrition, dehydration, or sudden alterations in appetite

– Emergence of untreated or newly diagnosed medical conditions

– Disturbances in sleeping patterns or instances of insomnia

– Observations of poor personal hygiene

– Unexplained injuries, illnesses, or behaviors

Supporting Your Loved One

Documenting any alterations, incidents, injuries, or communications with the facility’s staff is paramount. Subsequently, seeking assistance from a seasoned nursing home abuse and neglect attorney is imperative. Contact us at 312.641.5926 for a complimentary case evaluation and your loved one’s path to justice begins with The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C.