Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

At this point in history, we’d all like to believe that nursing homes are a safe alternative to care for an aging loved one. Unfortunately, this is not the case. With over 17,000 nursing homes nationwide housing over 1.6 million residents, the incidents of neglect and abuse is a common reality.

If you’ve had to make the difficult decision to place a loved one in a nursing home, you’re not alone. The aforementioned numbers are estimated to quadruple in the next 20-30 years as the baby boomers enter their senior years. This will create an even heavier burden on an already understaffed, underpaid workforce.

Over 30% of nursing home facilities have been cited for neglect or abuse. Personal injury law firms feel that this is unacceptable. They believe that when you have to place your loved one in a nursing home, you should have the assurance that your family member will have better quality of life. When this fails to happen, they are there on your behalf to take action.

Indicators of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

When your loved one is in a nursing home, it’s important that you closely monitor them for signs of abuse and neglect. Don’t rely on your family member to tell you. Most people don’t mention abuse or neglect because they feel ashamed and they're afraid of retaliation. The following are the things to watch for in order to make sure your loved one is safe.

• Poorly staffed facility
• Change in your family member’s behavior
• Persistent bad odor
• Bed sores and rashes
• Dehydration, malnutrition, and weight loss
• Hypothermia or Hyperthermia
• Left over prescription medication

Taking Action Could Save a Life

Many nursing home abuse incidents result in further injury, illness, or even death. So if you suspect that your loved one is the victim of abuse or neglect, take action immediately.

Nursing home abuse attorneys have the expertise and resources to investigate any claims of nursing home neglect or abuse. They want to ensure that your loved one is safe, so they take your claim very seriously. Whether you suspect physical, sexual, or financial abuse, abuse from another patient, or neglect of any type, they are there to help. They’ll advise you of your rights, guide you through the investigation process, and help you determine whether you need to file a report with appropriate licensing agencies.

Should you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect anywhere in the state of Montana, please contact Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys as soon as possible. It’s important to start the process early due to the limited time you have to file a claim.