Due to an increase in the elderly population, nursing homes and retirement facilities are expanding to accommodate more residents. Unfortunately, Nursing home Abuse has become among the top crimes in America. Elderly patients are vulnerable to theft, neglect, and physical harm because they can not defend themselves. Abuse happens because of unqualified employees with no experience. These employees often do not know how to deal with certain circumstances are more prone to take their frustrations out on the elderly residents. Statistics reveal suspicious deaths in nursing homes may be related to neglect. Conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia make elderly patients susceptible to abuse. Abused patients are more likely to have a history of domestic violence.
The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is not an easy one. It is often not thought out and met with guilt. Some situations can force an elderly person in a nursing home. When you place a loved one in the care of these facilities, you are trusting them with much more than money. You are trusting them to take care of your loved one. If you feel they have been abused, you are urged to get a lawyer right away. Nursing home abuse lawyer in Milwaukee, WI can guide you on the right course of action. They may advise you to set an appointment with their primary care physician to get a thorough examination. This can be used as evidence in a case.
Learn the signs of abuse if you aren’t sure you need legal help. Those who have been physically abused may have unexplained cuts, bruises, broken bones, swelling, drug overdoses, and burns. Mental abuse may include changes in behavior, refusal to communicate, fear, and depression. Signs of neglect can include bed sores, smell of urine, and an unkempt appearance. Signs of financial abuse can be disappearance of cash and belongings, or unauthorized selling of property and possessions.
It is your duly to get in touch with a qualified lawyer. They can tell you whether or not you have a case and the next steps to take. Listen to everything they tell you. You don’t have to stand by and let Nursing Home Abuse happen. It is the patient’s right to be treated humanely. For more information visit Phillips, Cymerman & Stein.
