You might not like to consider the possibility that someone would abuse or neglect your loved one while they are a resident in a nursing home. However, statistics show that many nursing home residents suffer from abuse and neglect. In a 2020 study by the World Health Organization, more than one out of every ten nursing home staff members reported instances of neglect. Once you discover nursing home neglect, you should report it to the appropriate individuals and agencies. Giving the information to a qualified nursing home neglect lawyer can assist you in protecting your loved one from further neglect and recovering compensation for injuries neglect has already caused.
Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
Before you can report neglect of your loved one, you must have evidence that it occurred or is occurring. Some signs that suggest the nursing home is neglecting your loved one include if your loved one:
- Appears disheveled, unclean, or has an unusual body odor
- Develops bed sores or other skin infections
- Has not had their clothes changed regularly or has dirty sheets
- Complains of frequent hunger or thirst
- Is not compliant with their medications
Additionally, if your loved one directly states that they feel neglected by the nursing home staff, you should take such complaints seriously. Acting quickly on these statements can help them avoid suffering further harm.
Speaking with a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer Early Is Crucial
When you suspect nursing home neglect, you might consider talking first with the head of the facility. The nursing home administrator could quickly discipline the responsible employee and take remedial action to improve your loved one’s care and quality of life.
Another resource available to you is Adult Protective Services. This division of New York’s Office of Children and Family Services investigates allegations of abuse and neglect committed against vulnerable adults. Adult Protective Services can also take specific legal actions to protect a vulnerable adult, such as seeking protective orders.
As beneficial as these steps may be, they are no substitute for speaking right away with a New York nursing home neglect lawyer. Your attorney can pursue many of the same investigative and legal steps as Adult Protective Services. Additionally, your lawyer can follow up with the nursing home to ensure any agreed-to remedial actions occur.
Retaining legal counsel quickly increases the likelihood that crucial evidence of neglect will remain available. By involving legal counsel early, you may also resolve the neglect more quickly, thereby minimizing the harm to your loved one.
Get Help Today from a New York Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer
We stand ready to assist you in protecting your loved one from nursing home neglect. Contact our offices immediately if you suspect staff members neglect your loved one. We will fight swiftly and diligently to protect your loved one’s legal rights.
We offer prospective clients a free, no-cost case consultation, so schedule yours with Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, PLLC today.
