Northern California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
Reporting Nursing Home Abuse
According to the National Institute of Justice, the issue of nursing home abuse and elder mistreatment is gaining the attention of law enforcement, medical, and research communities across the United States as more Americans are living longer than ever before. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that over 62 million Americans will be aged 65 or older in 2025, with over 7.4 million aged 85 or older. This is an increase of almost 68 percent from 2001, and this elderly population will require more care and protection, with many of them likely to reside in nursing homes or other assisted care facilities.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse and Elder Neglect
Nursing home abuse and elder neglect can be categorized into seven different classifications:
- Domestic violence, which is a pattern of violence exhibited by an intimidate partner who uses violence to exercise control over a senior citizen.
- Financial abuse, which is the illegal or misuse of an older person's money, property, or resources.
- Neglect, which is a caregiver's failure to adequately fulfill their care giving responsibilities to an elderly person.
- Physical abuse, which is the use of physical force that results in an elderly person's injury, impairment, or pain, and can also include assault, battery, and inappropriate use of restraints.
- Psychological abuse, which is the infliction of emotional or mental suffering to an elderly person due to another person's threats, humiliation, or other verbal/nonverbal behavior.
- Self-neglect, which is a senior citizen's failure to adequately provide for their own essential needs.
- Sexual abuse, which is any non-consensual sexual contact with an older person.
Signs of Elder Abuse
An elderly person who is suffering abuse at a nursing home facility may exhibit some of the following behaviors:
- Appears isolated
- Bedsores
- Exhibits signs of depression
- Repeatedly has "accidental" injuries
- Reports chronic, yet vague complaints
- Seems fearful
- Significant change in demeanor
- Talks about or considers suicide
- Unexplained bruises or cuts
Be Proactive, Report Nursing Home Abuse
If your loved one has exhibited any of the aforementioned signs and you believe they are being neglected or abused at their care facility, contact your local law enforcement if they are in immediate danger. Then, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which is administered by the California Department of Aging. It is the responsibility of the Ombudsman Program to receive and resolve complaints and issues by or on behalf of residents in long-term care facilities, which include assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and residential care facilities for the elderly. Elderly residents at these facilities or their family members can file a complaint directly with the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman or may call the CRISISline at 1-800-231-4024. This phone number is available 24/7 to take calls from residents and refer their complaints.
When it is discovered a loved one has suffered abuse or neglect at the hands of someone you and your family trusted, you may be left angry and unsure of how the mistreatment was allowed to happen. While compensation may be the last thing on your mind as you help your loved one recover, it is important you understand their legal rights and options so you can help guarantee others do not suffer the same abuse. At Estey and Bomberger, LLP, our Northern California nursing home abuse attorneys can help your family during this difficult time. Call (800) 890-6722 to learn more.