Nursing Homes And Your Loved Ones
Families with relatives in nursing home facilities should be in constant communication with the facility’s personnel, make unexpected visits, and always remain alert. The National Center on Elder Abuse reports that more than a third of America’s nursing homes have been cited for violating elder abuse and neglect laws. Nursing homes are trusted to care for elderly and often frail family members, but unfortunately nursing home residents are sometimes themselves exploited, mistreated, or even abused. If you suspect that your own elderly loved one may be a victim of mistreatment or abuse in a Chicago-area nursing home, contact an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer immediately.
While most nursing homes in Illinois are professionally operated and staffed, other nursing home facilities are not. Understaffing and a lack of proper training are typically the root causes underlying abuse or mistreatment in nursing home facilities. Nursing home owners cannot be permitted to place profits above the safety and well-being of nursing home residents. Neglect or abuse in Chicago-area nursing home facilities may include:
– dehydration and malnutrition
– verbal, emotional, or physical abuse
– excessive restraint
– failing to observe residents (to thwart falls or other incidents)
– negligence or malpractice and any ensuing medical complications
– ulcers or bed sores caused by neglecting the bedridden
Financial exploitation of nursing home residents is also increasing. Such exploitation can include stealing money or jewels, cashing checks without authorization, forging signatures, or tricking or intimidating someone into signing a document such as a contract or will. If you uncover any indications of neglect, abuse, or financial exploitation, or if you suspect your loved one may be suffering abuse in a Chicago nursing home, take appropriate action immediately. Speak to an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer who can fight for your family’s rights, show you what steps to take, and help your family win the damages and justice you deserve.
