KJ McElrath  |  May 14, 2019

Category: Legal News

Top Class Actions’s website and social media posts use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using such links, we may receive a commission, but it will not result in any additional charges to you. Please review our Affiliate Link Disclosure for more information.

nashville nursing home abuse lawyers represent victims of abuse and neglect

Elder abuse is a serious problem in Nashville and throughout the United States. Holding those who perpetrate these acts accountable, especially if the abuse took place in a residential facility, may require the assistance of an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer. The elderly are among society’s most vulnerable members and many of them do not have an advocate to ensure they are well-cared for.

According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 30 percent of nursing home residents suffer some form of abuse or neglect, yet only about 7 percent of such cases are ever reported.

Every elder care facility is required by law to provide a certain level of care, but whether due to oversight or malicious intent, these standards are not always met. Statistics indicate that elderly people who have been the victims of abuse or neglect are four times more likely to die prematurely.

If you have cause to believe that an elder family member in a residential care facility or nursing home has been the victim of abuse or neglect, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit, and in some cases, criminal charges may be brought.

Here are answers to commonly asked questions about nursing home abuse and the law.

What Are Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

Not all signs of abuse or neglect are apparent. However, some of the more common, visible signs include:

  • bedsores
  • unexplained lacerations, scrapes or bruises
  • sudden, unexplained weight loss
  • jaundice or visible skin problems
  • personality changes, depression
  • poor hygiene
  • a room or facility that is unsanitary or infested
  • damaged or missing personal items
  • unusual or chronic illness

There may be other, less obvious indications, including infections and dehydration.

I’ve Heard of Exploitation. What Forms Does This Take?

Vulnerable elderly residents can be financially exploited. Sometimes, this is obvious, such as when cash, valuable jewelry or collectors items go missing. Other times, it can be more sophisticated – an individual at the facility manages to access the victim’s bank accounts, or the resident is the victim of a swindle or scam. In other cases, residents are forced to pay for services they do not require, or are overcharged.

On rare occasions, nursing home abuse can take the form of sexual assault.

What About Psychological Abuse?

Verbal, emotional and psychological abuse is also grounds for legal action. This can include name-calling, threats, belittling and what is known as “gaslighting,” a form of psychological manipulation, Psychology Today explains.

What Can I Do?

If you suspect that an elderly family member has been subjected to nursing home abuse or neglect, your first step should be to report your concerns to the facility management. Document your concerns with photos and contact the state health department. If physical or sexual abuse has occurred, you should file a report with law enforcement agencies as well. Above all, do not take this on by yourself.

Nashville nursing home abuse lawyers experienced in elder law can help victims and their families hold those responsible accountable for their actions and assist in recovering damages for economic losses and pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one was injured, looking for an attorney during this time only adds to the stress you are already facing. If you live in the greater Nashville area, we at Top Class Actions recommend the experienced personal injury attorneys at Whitfield Bryson & Mason. Fill out the FREE form on this page for more information.

Learn More

We tell you about cash you can claim EVERY WEEK! Sign up for our free newsletter.


Get Help – It’s Free

Get Help From a Nashville Personal Injury Lawyer

Fill out the form below or call to schedule your free no-obligation case evaluation now.

731-574-3412

Oops! We could not locate your form.

Please note: Top Class Actions is not a settlement administrator or law firm. Top Class Actions is a legal news source that reports on class action lawsuits, class action settlements, drug injury lawsuits and product liability lawsuits. Top Class Actions does not process claims and we cannot advise you on the status of any class action settlement claim. You must contact the settlement administrator or your attorney for any updates regarding your claim status, claim form or questions about when payments are expected to be mailed out.