Elder abuse has become an increasing concern throughout the United States, particularly in nursing homes located in Ocala, Florida.
This mounting concern can be attributed to Florida’s massive population of 4.5 million seniors and the growing suspicion of widespread negligence and skewed reporting data.
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. In this article, we’ll look at the various types of elder abuse in nursing homes and when to contact a lawyer who specializes in nursing home abuse.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse ranges from subtle signs, like bedsores or dehydration, to more alarming signs, like a physical or emotional injury.
For instance, bedsores are areas of skin that have been damaged due to prolonged pressure against a surface, such as a mattress or a chair. Bedsores may not sound all that serious initially, but if left untreated, bedsores can lead to infection and even death.
Dehydration is another common sign of nursing home neglect and can be caused by an inadequate daily water intake. Seniors need extra assistance staying hydrated, as their organically aging faculties can sometimes prevent them from adequately caring for themselves.
Other types of injury are more likely to be conspicuous and noticeable, like physical or sexual assault. In addition, verbal or mental abuse inflicted on elderly residents by staff members may constitute abuse requiring legal action.
When looking for the signs of elder abuse, it is essential to remember that victims are often unable or unwilling to speak up because they fear retaliation from their abusers or feel embarrassed about what has happened to them.
As such, families of elderly loved ones need to inquire with the staff at their relative’s nursing home about any concerns they may have regarding potential mistreatment or neglect.
When to Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
If you suspect your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact a qualified attorney immediately.
An experienced law firm will have the knowledge and skill necessary to navigate the complexities of elder abuse law and provide your family with sound legal guidance.
A good nursing home abuse lawyer should not only be able to assess whether you have sufficient evidence but also provide advice on how best to deal with abusive staff members or care providers who may be responsible for your loved one’s mistreatment.
Elderly residents living in Ocala’s nursing homes deserve proper care and respect from all care staff involved in their lives, regardless of whether they are family members, personal assistants, medical professionals, or other individuals employed by the facility.
Taking action when someone you love experiences any type of elder abuse is essential for protecting their well-being both now and into the future, so don’t wait – contact a qualified attorney today if you think your loved one may be suffering from any form of elder abuse while living in an Ocala-based nursing home facility!