Finding a nursing home or other long-term care facility for a family member is never an easy choice for families to make. When you suspect the facility you have carefully chosen is mistreating your loved one, it can leave you infuriated and in shock.
If you have reason to believe that abuse or neglect is occurring, you must report it immediately to help your family and other residents in the facility. Doing so could be much easier with the help of a compassionate personal injury attorney. Contact Damon J. Baldone & Associates today to speak with a Houma and Terrebonne Parish nursing home abuse lawyer to begin reviewing your legal options.
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
There are many potential signs to watch for that could mean a resident in a skilled nursing facility is experiencing maltreatment. Some of these might include:
- Unexplained bruises and broken bones
- Bedsores
- Markings from restraints
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Sudden mood changes, including fear and anxiety
- Reluctance to speak in the presence of a specific staff member
- Infections
- Unsanitary or unclean living conditions
A seasoned attorney from the parish seat of Terrebonne could review the details of a case to determine if there is evidence of long-term care facility abuse or neglect.
Different Forms of Rest Home Abuse
Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are legally obligated to protect every resident and uphold their right to a dignified existence. This includes allowing them to access all services they require or request inside and outside of the facility. Unfortunately, this standard of care is not always upheld, and there are many forms of mistreatment that nursing home residents could face.
Physical Harm
Any physical injuries a caretaker or nursing home team member directly or intentionally causes a resident is physical abuse. This form of behavior is one of the most common and easiest to spot due to the presence of unexplained wounds, bruises, and injuries.
Emotional, Psychological, or Mental Abuse
This form of harm occurs when a caregiver inflicts trauma on a resident without physical touch. It can include verbal and non-verbal actions that cause them to feel fear, confusion, or intimidation.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse occurs when a facility team member takes possession of the resident’s property or assets for personal gain. It could be stealing their checks, taking items from their room, or using credit cards without permission.
Neglect
Neglect occurs when the nursing home staff does not ensure the residents receive daily care, such as changing clothes or bedding. It could also mean not ensuring they have adequate food or water.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse includes any unwanted intimate touch. A Houma and Terrebonne Parish nursing home abuse attorney could provide more clarity about the different forms of abuse and help individuals gather evidence to hold the facility and staff legally accountable for their actions.
Meet With a Houma and Terrebonne Parish Attorney About Suspected Nursing Home Abuse
Attempting to take legal matters into your own hands after suspecting the mistreatment of your loved one will likely be a long and frustrating process. A Houma and Terrebonne Parish nursing home abuse lawyer could help you navigate the complex legal system and advocate on your behalf to assist your family with pursuing the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
Reach out to our firm today to schedule a consultation to get started.
