Nursing Home Abuse

Almost two million people live in nursing homes in the United States, with that number expected to increase to over five million in the next thirty years. Each year, one out of three nursing homes is cited for elderly abuse, according to government figures.

Elderly abuse is defined as: “any act, failure to act, or incitement to act done willfully, knowingly, or recklessly through words or physical action which causes or could cause mental or physical injury to an elderly resident.” This includes verbal, sexual, mental/psychological, or physical abuse.

Some of the more commonly recognized forms of abuse are rape, sexual assault, battery, physical restraint, dehydration, malnutrition, over-medication, under-medication, unexplained injuries, open wounds (such as cuts, bruises, abrasions), reports of mistreatment, and neglect.

No matter the reason for elderly abuse, nursing home residents have the right to a safe and physical/mental abuse-free environment. There are steps each resident or family member can take to ensure a safe environment.

You have the right to information about nursing homes.

1. All Medicare/Medicaid facilities are required by law to make inspection reports public.

2. Each state licensing agency holds nursing home violation reports and complaints

3. Each state requires that nursing home facilities be adequately staffed to care for elderly individuals.

4. As a nursing home resident, you have the right to choose your personal physician.

5. You are entitled to all information regarding your medical care and treatment.

6. You have the right to refuse any treatments
   
   Warning signs that you or your loved one may be undergoing physical or mental abuse at a nursing home facility include:
   
   

7. Bed sores or pressure sores

8. Falls or fractures (indicators of abuse or neglect)

9. Anger or agitation

10. Extreme withdrawal

11. Unexplained injuries

12. Heavily medicated – with no physical signs of need

13. Increased weight loss without notification

14. Unsanitary conditions – including soiled clothing/bedding

15. Dehydration

16. Malnutrition

17. Unexplained/Unusual behavior (i.e., yelling, biting, rocking)

18. Use of restraints  
    
    And many more…
    If you or your loved one show any of the above signs, or believe he/she is being abused, please contact Coastal Law for a consultation with our attorneys. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages/loss.