Nursing home neglect happens every day to those who are most vulnerable and unable to protect themselves. More than two million cases of nursing home abuse and neglect are reported every year. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Many more cases are never reported, but it’s believed that 10% of the elderly are abused or neglected.
An Abuse of Trust
Older people typically enter nursing homes in one of two circumstances:
* The individual has been transferred from a hospital or
* Their family is no longer able to provide the level of care that is now required and delegated their loved one’s care to a nursing home.
The nursing home has assumed a duty of care to the patient. This is a legal obligation meaning that a reasonable standard of care must be provided. Substandard care or neglect can be considered negligence, an element that must be proven in a personal injury case.
An Inability to Communicate
The elderly are the least likely of all Americans to report that they are being abused. Some are ashamed and embarrassed. Dementia robs many elderly of the ability to communicate or protest what is happening to them, making harmful neglect that much more reprehensible. In some cases, an elderly victim is threatened with harm if they tell anyone what is happening. Poor nutrition or improper medication can cause confusion, making it difficult for family members to understand what is happening.
Neglect can Take Many Forms
Nursing home neglect does not have to involve an intent to harm the resident. It can be emotional, physical or medical.
* Emotional neglect can occur when someone is ignored, taunted or left alone for long periods.
* Physical neglect typically involves someone’s basic needs. A patient may not be bathed or taken to the bathroom. A senior with a tiny appetite can become malnourished because no one coaxes him or her to eat. Lack of water leads to dehydration, a dangerous condition.
* Medical neglect can result in bedsores, which if not treated can turn into dangerous ulcers. Lack of needed medical treatment or improper medication can go unnoticed until the situation becomes critical.
If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from neglect or abuse in a nursing home, contact the Law Offices of Elan Wurtzel in Plainview, NY. It may be necessary to take immediate action to protect your loved one from further harm. You can also follow them on Twitter.