Has Your Loved One Been A Victim Of Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect?

Like other Missouri families, you may feel pressured to find the right nursing home facility for your loved one. With so many nursing homes to choose from, finding one that you trust can seem like a daunting task.

Sadly, your hesitation to choose a place could be justified. You have probably heard horror stories about abuse and neglect in nursing homes. The problem is that many of those stories are true.

Call our lawyer at The Backer Law Firm in Independence for a free consultation at 816-399-5219.

Some Of The Worst Nursing Home Issues

Many negligence and abuse issues in nursing homes can put your loved one’s life in danger and cause serious injuries, including:

Sexual abuse: Nursing home residents often find themselves at the mercy of staff members, which means that residents may end up powerless to stop sexual abuse. Many patients fail to report this type of abuse out of fear, embarrassment, shame and more. Any signs of such abuse should be reported immediately.

Bedsores: Many nursing home residents have issues with mobility. If they spend a lot of time in bed or sitting in one place, they could develop pressure ulcers, popularly known as bedsores. They generally appear on parts of the body that make the most contact with a surface, such as the buttocks, the backs of the legs and arms, and the spine and shoulders. Their presence could indicate neglect by nursing home staff.

Elopement: This is when a nursing home resident wanders away from the facility. Residents often suffer injuries due to falls, being hit by a car or other factors. Depending on the weather, a resident could suffer heat stroke or hypothermia. These are just some of the situations that your loved one could end up in if the nursing home staff fails to make sure that he or she remains safely in the facility.

These situations can threaten the mental, emotional and physical health of your loved one, making their daily living situation a nightmare.

What To Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse Or Neglect

First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that spotting nursing home abuse or neglect can be difficult. Elderly individuals often face various health issues and may exhibit signs of physical or mental decline, making it challenging to differentiate between the natural effects of aging and potential mistreatment. Additionally, instances of abuse or neglect can manifest in subtle ways that are easily overlooked. We understand the concern and emotional turmoil you may be experiencing, and we are here to support you in taking the necessary steps to address the situation.

Recognizing Signs Of Nursing Home Abuse

It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the signs that may indicate nursing home abuse or neglect. These signs can vary and may include unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures, sudden changes in behavior or mood, unclean or unsanitary living conditions, unexplained weight loss or malnutrition, and the presence of bedsores or pressure ulcers. Financial abuse, which involves the unauthorized use of an elderly person’s funds or assets, is also a grave concern. Pay attention to any unusual financial transactions, missing personal belongings, or sudden changes in the individual’s financial situation.

Taking Action

If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect, it is vital to act swiftly and appropriately. Here are some steps you can take:

Document your observations: Keep a detailed record of any signs or incidents you have witnessed, including dates, times, and descriptions. This documentation will serve as crucial evidence if you need to report the situation later.
Report your concerns: Contact the nursing home administration immediately and express your concerns. Provide them with the specific details you have observed and request a thorough investigation.
Involve the authorities: If the nursing home fails to take appropriate action, or if you suspect an imminent danger to your loved one, contact the local adult protective services agency or law enforcement authorities. They have the expertise to investigate and ensure your loved one’s safety.
Seek legal assistance: Consult with an experienced lawyer specializing in nursing home abuse cases. They can guide you through the legal process, help protect your loved one’s rights, and seek compensation if necessary.

Suspecting nursing home abuse or neglect is a distressing situation, but by taking proactive measures, you can help protect your loved one. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and The Backer Law Firm has the resources available to support you in your pursuit of justice.

What Is A Gray Alert Or Silver Alert?

When a nursing home resident disappears, a facility and/or family could take advantage of the Endangered Silver Advisory program administered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Information regarding a missing adult can be quickly disseminated since time is critical in locating a patient with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive conditions. The problem is that a nursing home may not take advantage of this service right away out of fear of discovery regarding allowing a resident to wander away without noticing.

Call Us For A Free Consultation

Knowing when to take action can be difficult when it comes to protecting your loved ones. When you talk to us, be prepared to address the following questions: