As America’s population is aging, it has become necessary for many to find proper nursing facilities for their elderly loved ones. However, many people do not expect to have to retain an elder care attorney due to suspicions of nursing home negligence or neglect for their family members they have placed in an assisted living facility.

It is estimated that about 1.3 to 1.5 million Americans age sixty-five or older live in some type of nursing home or assisted living facility. That number is growing, as 10,000 baby boomers are turning sixty-five daily.

The average age that an older adult is admitted to a nursing home is 79, and some statistics say that over 50% of those living in assisted living facilities are over the age of 85.

Nursing home neglect has been seen as a serious problem in this country. It is estimated that as many as 5 million older people are victims of nursing home neglect, negligence or abuse each year. An alarmingly high percentage (84%) of these incidents are not reported to the authorities.

Because of this, many people whose loved ones have been the victims of nursing home negligence or neglect have opted to seek the help of an elder care attorney to discuss their options for recourse.

What is Nursing Home Negligence?

Many elderly individuals who live in assisted living or skilled nursing facilities have been victims of exploitation, abuse or neglect. These facilities can include long-term facilities such as assisted living, skilled nursing, residential board and care facilities as well as day care centers for elderly adults.

An elder care attorney can help loved ones with the following types of neglect or abuse.

·      Neglect: Nursing home neglect is when a caregiver does not provide food, shelter, health care or protection for an elderly person. Some signs of this kind of problem include bed sores, urinary tract infections, chronic infections, malnutrition, dehydration, pressure sores and fractures.

·      Abandonment: Nursing home abandonment is when a vulnerable elderly person is deserted by a caregiver for any reason such as a natural disaster.

·      Physical abuse: Physical abuse in a nursing facility occurs if a vulnerable elderly person is the victim of injury or physical pain caused by a caregiver or if the elder has been deprived of a basic need.

Some signs of nursing home neglect are not always obvious, and an elder care attorney can help a family discuss the best options if it is suspected a loved one is being mistreated in a facility.

However, there are signs that can indicate a vulnerable elder is being mistreated. These include bed sores or pressure sores, bruises, broken bones, abrasions or burns. Also, frequent falls, unattended hygiene, unexplained weight loss and chronic infections can indicate improper treatment. Additionally, strained relationships or arguments between a caregiver and an elderly person can also indicate a problem.

If you suspect your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing facility, you may benefit from speaking with an elder care attorney. An elder care attorney can discuss options with you and help determine if you are eligible to take legal action.