If you or a loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, you probably have many questions about what to do next. You may be tempted to take matters into your own hands, but this can make things worse for you and your loved one. Instead, contacting an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options for holding the abuser accountable could be the right option. They can help you get the compensation you deserve, including reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
But before connecting with Michigan nursing home abuse lawyers, it is important to understand the consequences of nursing home abuse. This will help you determine whether you can build a case against the care facility or not. Read on.
Physical Injuries
Physical abuse can involve hitting, shoving, kicking, or otherwise causing harm to a resident. This abuse can result in bruises, cuts, broken bones, and other serious injuries. If you or your loved one has sustained any physical injury while residing in a nursing home, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, take pictures or videos of the injuries and record all medical appointments and expenses related to the injuries. These will be important evidence if you file a lawsuit against the abuser or the care facility.
Emotional Injuries
Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse. It can involve yelling, name-calling, threats, and intimidation. You may notice that your loved one becomes withdrawn or anxious after spending time with a particular staff member. If you believe your loved one is a victim of emotional abuse, it is important to document any changes in their behavior. It would help if you also kept a journal detailing any incidents of abuse that you witness or that are reported to you.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is any sexual contact between a nursing home resident and a staff member without the resident’s consent. This can include anything from unwanted touching to rape. If you have reasons to believe your relative has been sexually abused, getting them to a safe place as soon as possible is important. You should also contact the police and an attorney. Be sure to preserve any evidence of the abuse, such as clothing or bedding that may have been damaged during the assault.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse can involve:
- Stealing a resident’s money or property.
- Forging their signature on financial documents.
- Coercing them into giving the abuser power of attorney.
This abuse can leave victims without the resources they need to pay for their care or support themselves. If you have substantial proof of financial abuse, contact an attorney. They can help you freeze your assets and prevent the abuser from accessing them.
Neglect
Neglect occurs when a nursing home staff member fails to provide a resident with the basic necessities of life, such as food, water, shelter, or medical care. This can leave a resident feeling isolated, confused, and vulnerable. If you think the neglect is intentional by the staff or as an act of some vendetta, report it to the nursing home’s authorities. If no action is taken or the authorities deny responsibility, contacting a lawyer could be the best option.
Wrongful Death
In some cases, abuse can result in the death of a nursing home resident. If someone you love has died as a result of abuse or neglect, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the abuser or the care facility. An attorney can help you determine whether you have a case and, if so, what type of damages you may be entitled to collect.
Retaliation
It is important to know that if you report nursing home abuse, the staff cannot retaliate against you or your loved one. This includes punishment, such as evicting the resident from the facility or denying them services. If you experience retaliation after reporting abuse, contact an attorney immediately. They can protect your rights and take legal action against the nursing home.
Stress and Trauma
Nursing home abuse can cause intense psychological and emotional stress. The physical pain and injuries sustained may also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and more. If you’ve been a victim of nursing home abuse, it’s important to seek professional help to deal with the stress and trauma. You may also need a psychotherapist to help you work through your PTSD symptoms.
Final Word
No one deserves to be a victim of nursing home abuse. If you or someone you love has been abused, it’s important to take action to protect your rights and safety. You must also contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney who can help you understand your legal options and take action to hold the abuser accountable. Good luck!
Originally posted 2022-09-19 18:54:49.