Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Demands an Attorney

Nursing homes have been in the news a lot since the pandemic began. Families have struggled with lockdowns, staff shortages and more as their loved ones are living in nursing homes across the country. From long stretches of not visiting their family members to fear about their care, families face daily stress hoping their loved ones will be fine. Nursing homes provide care for as many as 1.4 million people across the country, with most of them doing everything possible to provide quality care for their family members.

Nursing Home Negligence Happens, and It’s Wrong

Nursing home negligence and abuse are horrible to think about. If your loved one has experienced it, you know it is devastating. How can you be certain your family member is being treated the way they deserve? There are signs to watch for that can give you a clue there might be something bad happening.

1. Watch for emotional behaviors, such as becoming agitated or upset, especially when nursing home staff is in the room.
2. Have you noticed sudden changes in your loved one’s weight? Weight loss could be attributed to malnutrition, especially when accompanied by mouth sores, dental problems, poor wound healing and abundant bruising. While weight changes can fluctuate and some issues with wound healing or bruising may be due to age, keep an eye on things when you notice these signs and talk to your family member’s doctor.
3. Unexplained injuries, cuts, bruising and welts could be signs your loved one is being abused.

If you suspect your loved one is being neglected or abused while in the care of a nursing home, you must know that the facility is liable for this treatment. In addition, you may have a case for damages. Nursing homes that accept Medicare or Medicaid are subject to federal law. According to CFR 483.13, all residents have “the right to be free from verbal, sexual, physical, and mental abuse, corporal punishment and involuntary seclusion.”

You Need an Experienced Attorney

If you are concerned your loved one is experiencing either abuse or neglect in their Georgia nursing home, your first step is to talk to the facility’s management. If they fail to protect your loved one, it’s time to call Georgia personal injury lawyer Darrell T. Farr. He is experienced in elder abuse or neglect in nursing homes, and he will fight for your loved one’s rights. Call (404) 964-6056 today for a free consultation.