Nursing Home Abuse

Putting an elderly relative into a nursing home is a difficult decision which should be eased by the knowledge that our loved ones will be receiving necessary professional care. Unfortunately, the neglect or even abuse of nursing home residents is all too common in this country. It is difficult to keep accurate statistics, as the problem is widely under-reported, but one USA Today article from 2003 claimed that half of all nursing home residents are suffering from untreated pain.

Because elderly patients often suffer from memory or cognitive impairments, it can be very difficult to know when they are being neglected or abused. It is a good idea to keep an eye out for certain tell-tale signs of neglect or abuse when visiting a loved one in a nursing home.

Physical signs may include unexplained cuts or bruises, sudden weight loss, bed sores, poor hygiene, missing possessions, and overmedication or other forms of unnecessary restraint.

Emotional signs may include timidity, fearfulness, depression, and emotional withdrawal. If you overhear a nursing home employee speaking disrespectfully or insultingly towards your loved one, this is a form of emotional abuse.

To file a nursing home abuse lawsuit, you will need to be able to demonstrate that neglect or malice on the part of the nursing home has caused your elderly relative to suffer emotionally, physically or financially. If your elderly relative is unable to file charges, you may do so on his or her behalf.

If you suspect that a loved one is being neglected or abused by nursing home staff, it is a good idea to contact a Madison medical malpractice lawyer from Habush, Habush, & Rottier, S.C. right away to discuss your options. Our Madison medical malpractice attorneys can be reached at (608) 255-6663.