People move their loved ones into nursing homes to receive care in a safe and nurturing environment as they continue to advance in age. Some have chronic health conditions that require more attention than can be provided at home. However, this also leaves nursing home residents more vulnerable to abuse, especially if their communication ability has been blunted by memory issues or deteriorating health. The effects of elder abuse in New York nursing homes are extensive and may have physical, mental, and emotional impacts. Unfortunately, Dalli & Marino has worked with countless families who have found themselves stunned at the level of abuse that their loved ones suffered at the hands of nursing home staff.
We are passionate about helping these families to get the justice they and their loved ones deserve in such a situation. Elder abuse is never acceptable, and we work within the legal system to pursue every avenue available to hold nursing homes accountable for allowing a culture of abuse to thrive.
What Is Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes?
Elder abuse in a nursing home environment is characterized by the harm caused to residents in long-term care facilities by staff, administrators, residents, or others that cause intentional or unintentional harm.
The effects of elder abuse in New York nursing homes may consist of mental deterioration, severe health crises, and the development of chronic health issues. In some instances, elder abuse can even be fatal to victims.
Common Signs of New York Nursing Home Elder Abuse
Preventing nursing home abuse depends on knowing the signs, which can sometimes be more subtle than you may think. Things to look out for include:
- Bedsores
- Broken bones/unexplained bruises
- Unexplained STDs
- Malnutrition/dehydration
- Fatigue or insomnia
- Unexplained injuries
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Sudden changes in mood
- Anxiety/depression
- Substance use/abuse
- Aggressive behavior
- Suicidal ideation
- Changes to financial accounts not made by family
- Opening new credit cards or bank accounts
- Changes to a power of attorney
- Strange financial charges
This is by no means an exhaustive list. The best thing to do is talk with your loved one to determine if anything unusual is happening and visit as often as possible to note changes yourself.
Why You Need Assistance from a New York Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
While you may be tempted to address the issue of nursing home abuse on your own, it is best to have legal representation before you act (unless your loved one is in immediate danger, in which case you need to call law enforcement right away). Nursing homes are always prepared to defend their behavior, even if they behave inappropriately. You may be surprised by the inundation of administrative and legal staff that comes your way after any accusation of abuse. Dalli & Marino is experienced and ready to deal with this onslaught and then some.
We will advocate on behalf of your family and your loved one to stop the abuse before it worsens. We will assess the situation to determine what action needs to be implemented and how to remedy the situation to satisfy you and your family members. Our lawyers are well-versed in the signs of elder abuse and can give you an idea of the extent of the abuse and what resources are available to help your loved one with the trauma they experienced.
Take Action to Stop Elder Abuse before It Worsens
Elder abuse in New York nursing homes might start subtle and infrequent, but failing to take action can cause those perpetrating the abuse to become more flagrant and egregious. As soon as you suspect there might be an issue, reach out to law enforcement if your loved one is not safe. Your next call should be to Dalli & Marino so that we can advise you on how to proceed to get justice for your loved one. We will advocate on your behalf and help you deal with the legal fallout of the situation. We will also tell you exactly how to hold the nursing home responsible for what they allow to happen to your loved one.
There is never an excuse for elder abuse in a nursing home; the administrators try to justify what happened no matter their excuse. Call us today at (888) 465-8790 to schedule a free case review. You can also contact us online to learn more. Se Habla Español.
