Nursing home neglect happens when residents suffer from improper care that results in illness, physical harm, or even death. Nursing home abuse and neglect may be violent or less obvious, but the dangers are still present. As our Gurnee, IL nursing home neglect lawyer has seen in previous cases, senior residents can suffer greatly when their care is not adequate. Some staff members may be outright abusive and inflict harm that causes physical and mental anguish. If you suspect that mistreatment is happening to your loved one while living in a nursing home, we urge you to contact us at Therman Law Offices, LTD today.
Examples Of Neglect
Nursing home neglect is a type of abuse that is committed against residents who live in assisted living, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities. Negligence entails poor care or breaches the duty that caregivers have to attend to residents reasonably and attentively. Nursing home neglect may not be as aggressive as abuse, but it can still be harmful and have negative effects on the resident’s health. Victims of nursing home abuse are wise to take immediate action so that no further incidents occur. As our dedicated nursing home neglect attorney explains, examples of neglect include:
- Ignoring a resident’s illnesses or injuries (infections, bedsores, etc.)
- Failing to contact a doctor or nurse for medical attention when needed
- Leaving a resident with mobility challenges in their room for prolonged periods of time
- Neglecting to help a resident bath or change their clothes or bedding regularly
- Not providing enough food or water which leads to nutritional deficiencies
Lack Of Personal Hygiene
If you visit your loved one in a nursing home and notice that their hygiene is poor, this could be from caregivers failing to assist them with bathing and other hygienic tasks. Neglect of personal hygiene can include failing to wash laundry, allowing residents to go without baths, not providing dental care, and not changing diapers for those who wear diapers. Senior residents who are neglected may appear dirty and wear soiled clothes. Other signs of neglect are listed as follows:
- Psychological issues
- Dehydration and malnutrition
- Sudden weight loss
- Unexplained bruises or injuries
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Lack of enough staffing
- Emotional outbursts
- Rocking or soothing behaviors
- Withdrawing from visitors
Therman Law Offices, LTD
Nobody deserves to be neglected while living out their remaining years. Those who reside in a nursing home or other care facility should be taken care of and have their needs met. If you believe that your loved one is being abused, neglected, or otherwise mistreated, then we suggest speaking with our IL nursing home neglect attorney as soon as possible. It is imperative that swift action is taken so that no further incidents of abuse or neglect occur. Family members of nursing home residents are encouraged to visit their loved one frequently, be involved in their medical care, and stay alert to signs of mistreatment. If you have any concerns about this, please reach out to our team at Therman Law Offices, LTD today.
Types Of Nursing Homes That May Be Neglecting A Loved One
When we entrust a nursing home with the care of a loved one, we expect the highest level of compassion, professionalism, and attention to their needs. Sadly, not all facilities uphold these standards, and some may even be guilty of neglect. Nursing home neglect can occur in a variety of settings, from underfunded institutions to facilities with poor staff management. Recognizing the signs of neglect and understanding the types of nursing homes where it may be more likely to occur can help families protect their loved ones. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we are dedicated to supporting families in Gurnee who suspect their loved ones may be experiencing neglect.
Understaffed Nursing Homes
One of the primary factors contributing to nursing home neglect is understaffing. Facilities with inadequate staff numbers may struggle to provide consistent, quality care to each resident. When there are not enough caregivers to meet residents’ needs, issues such as missed meals, skipped medications, or lack of assistance with personal hygiene can arise. Understaffed facilities often lead to caregivers being overworked and stressed, which may reduce the level of attention they provide to each resident. In cases where a loved one is suffering due to neglect in an understaffed nursing home, consulting a Gurnee nursing home neglect lawyer can help families understand their legal options.
Poorly Managed Facilities
Management plays a crucial role in maintaining standards within nursing homes. Facilities with poor management often have disorganized operations, lack of clear procedures, and inadequate oversight of staff. These issues can contribute to neglectful practices, especially if caregivers are not held accountable for their actions. Without effective management, staff may fail to adhere to protocols for medication administration, emergency procedures, or daily care routines. Families who notice a lack of order or visible signs of mismanagement within a nursing home may have reason to be concerned about their loved one’s safety and well-being.
Nursing Homes With High Staff Turnover
Facilities with high staff turnover rates may struggle to provide consistent care to residents. Constant changes in staff can lead to a lack of continuity in care and make it difficult for residents to establish trusting relationships with caregivers. Inconsistent staffing can also increase the risk of neglect, as new or temporary staff may not be familiar with each resident’s specific needs. Families should be mindful of high turnover rates, as they can indicate underlying issues with the facility’s working conditions or management.
Signs Of Nursing Home Neglect To Watch For
Regardless of the type of nursing home, neglect may manifest in various ways, and families should remain vigilant for warning signs. Physical signs such as bedsores, unexplained injuries, or poor hygiene may indicate a lack of proper care. Emotional signs, such as sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal, or depression, can also point to neglect. Any of these signs should be taken seriously, and families should consider consulting a Gurnee nursing home neglect lawyer to discuss their concerns and assess the next steps.
Seeking Legal Support For Nursing Home Neglect
If you suspect that a loved one may be experiencing neglect in a nursing home, it’s important to know that legal help is available. Addressing these issues can not only improve conditions for your loved one but may also prevent similar experiences for other residents. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we are dedicated to assisting families in Gurnee who are facing this difficult situation. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable Gurnee nursing home neglect lawyer who can help you explore your options and work toward justice and a safer environment for your loved one.