Reporting Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse and malpractice is an unfortunate and widespread problem in the United States. With approximately 1.6 million individuals cared for annually in nursing homes and a quarter of Americans receiving nursing home care at some point in their life, it is important that abuses and problems in nursing homes and elder care facilities are reported in a timely manner. Unfortunately, these problems are rarely reported.
A shocking study found that at least 30% of all care facilities are guilty of nursing home malpractice to some degree, while another study found that nearly five thousand nursing home patient death certificates stated that bedsores, dehydration, or starvation were the primary cause of death.
Nursing home malpractice and negligence can take many forms, injuring a patient emotionally, physically, mentally, and/or financially. To prevent injuries to loved ones and any other adults receiving nursing home care, it is imperative that all cases of abuse, or even suspected cases of abuse, be reported immediately. Possible signs of elder abuse may include:
- Physical symptoms like sores, dramatic weight loss, bruises or cuts
- Sudden and notable personality or mood changes
- A sudden lack of interest in old habits
If you are aware of or suspect any of these forms of neglect or abuse, there are several options available. If you believe that the nursing care residents are in immediate physical danger, you should call 9-1-1 as soon as possible. Otherwise, calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 may be your best option. The Eldercare Locator service helps individuals find the best agencies in their area to assist them with their particular situation.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of nursing home abuse or negligence, contact the Sheboygan nursing home malpractice attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier at 866.888.3620 today.