Nursing home abuse is any mistreatment of older adults in the care of professionals at long-term and assisted living facilities. Unfortunately, it is a common issue causing harm to residents throughout the country. Many flock to the state after retirement and reside in nursing homes when they can no longer care for themselves without assistance.
Despite that, the state lags in taking legal action to prevent abuse and injuries while protecting the community. Speak to a practiced Lake County nursing home abuse lawyer if you suspect wrongdoing or need help with a case. Our personal injury attorneys could work to protect your loved one.
The Different Forms of Abuse
Different forms of abuse can occur and have severe consequences for those residing in assisted living facilities, and some examples include:
- Physical abuse may be a single act or repeated actions, such as pushing or hitting patients, leaving them with broken bones, bruises, or cuts and other lasting consequences
- Neglect occurs when caregivers and staff fail to provide adequate care and is often the result of understaffing
- Emotional abuse of nursing home residents is non-physical actions to intimidate, cause stress, or frighten them and can cause severe emotional and mental health issues
- Sexual abuse is any unwanted touching or sexual advances and can leave them highly traumatized
- Financial abuse occurs when unauthorized caregivers or staff access a patient’s assets, including credit cards and checks, or steal their property
Understanding the different forms and the possible indicators of mistreatment is vital to protecting loved ones from harm.
Potential Signs and Symptoms
The potential signs and symptoms to know and watch for vary, depending on the abuse in the facility. Signs to be aware of include unexplained injuries, such as broken bones, bruises, poor hygiene, malnutrition, and dehydration.
Other potential red flags that could indicate abuse include unexplained weight loss, unattended medical needs, fear of staff, missing sums of money, or financial exploitation. A Lake County attorney could answer questions and help the victims or their families seek justice for those who suffered nursing home abuse.
Nursing Home Resident Rights
Residents in long-term care or assisted living facilities maintain their legal rights as American citizens, and federal and state laws regulate the industry closely. Per the requirements of Florida Statute § 400.022, all residents have the right to the following:
- Civil liberties and the right to practice the religion of their choice
- Private conversations without censoring
- Organize and participate in the social groups they choose to participate in
- The power to consent or withdraw their approval for outside professionals to provide health or legal services
- A system to present grievances or recommend changes
- Ability to request and review results of facility inspections conducted by the state or federal government
- Appropriate and adequate health care services meeting the accepted standard of care requirements
- Informed of their medical care plan and the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process
Non-compliant care facilities in the state face the potential for various consequences, including civil lawsuits and liability. Staff or management may face criminal charges and steep fines or closure when severe violations occur. A nursing home abuse lawyer in Lake County could investigate to determine if unlawful actions caused residents harm and help navigate the civil court procedures to hold facilities financially accountable.
Call a Seasoned Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Lake County Today to Learn More
Abuse occurring at nursing homes and long-term care facilities can have lasting negative impacts on the victims and, in the worst cases, lead to premature death. Families often struggle with the decision to place those they love in the care of strangers, and suspecting abuse or neglect can be infuriating and devastating.
You must take action if you suspect abuse to protect your loved one and other residents living in the facility. Schedule a consultation with a hard-working and skilled Lake County nursing home abuse lawyer promptly for more information.
