Nursing Home Abuse: When to Take Legal Action
Nursing home abuse may be called a “hidden crime” as it can be difficult to recognize and may be covered up by nursing home staff or victims who are too incapacitated or scared to report mistreatment. A number of cases nationally are unreported or unrecognized which is why knowing when to seek legal assistance can be confusing.
Our Arizona nursing home abuse attorneys recognize that nursing home neglect occurs in many different ways. If you suspect any nursing home abuse or neglect, please call (602) 786-8860. At Cullan & Cullan we are experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys with extensive medical backgrounds.
Signs of Abuse or Neglect
There are a number of factors which can contribute to elderly abuse. Some of the common forms of abuse include:
All of these may include specific signs or symptoms of neglect such as:
- Poor nutrition
- Inadequate hygiene
- Dehydration
- Appearance of bedsores (pressure sores)
- Social isolation
- Insubstantial medical attention
When you suspect an issue of nursing home abuse or neglect, you should consult an experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorney right away to explore legal options. Our lawyers are also doctors and thoroughly understand the difficult medical issues which accompany these issues. We have experienced patient suffering and are able to empathize with what you and your loved ones are facing during this traumatic time.
Prevention
In life, as in sports, the best offense is a good defense. Preventing the abuse of your family member in a nursing home is no different. By remaining involved, aware of their living situation and an active part of their lives, you can easily reduce the chances of your loved one becoming a victim of nursing home abuse.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Keep open communication with your loved one’s doctor
- Visit often and at different daytimes
- Talk regularly to nurses, aides and any other caregivers about your concerns
- Talk regularly to other nursing home residents and their family members; if your loved one has a roommate, that person or their family may be aware of neglect or abuse
- Get to know the people around your family member; in the event of possible neglect or abuse, get their full names and contact information
- Keep a written record of any conversations you have with your loved one’s healthcare providers
- When appropriate, put information in writing; if you voiced a concern or need with the healthcare team, it is helpful to follow up the conversation with a short letter or email confirming the conversation
If you think your loved one might be a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, there are options. If you decide to take legal action by hiring our nursing home abuse attorneys, you may be able to prevent abuse or neglect and protect your loved one from any further harm.
If you suspect any form of nursing home abuse or neglect in Arizona, please contact the experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys with extensive medical backgrounds at Cullan & Cullan today to schedule a confidential, no-cost consultation.