As our loved ones reach a certain stage in life, it may become apparent that their needs and our capacities to meet those needs no longer line up. At that point, we do our best to secure the level of care they require either through at-home care or by moving that loved one into an assisted care facility. We expect that facility to not only provide that care but to do so in a manner that upholds our loved ones’ dignity. Unfortunately for some Texas nursing home residents, the nursing home facility entrusted with their care may fail to uphold that responsibility.
Nursing home abuse and neglect is one of the most tragic forms of personal injury law we handle at Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers. When someone in our aging community is treated with anything less than the upmost respect, we have a responsibility to stand up and defend their rights. But how do you determine whether or not your aging loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect?
Most important, keep you eyes open for telling symptoms and signs. Here are just a few:
- bed sores,
- broken bones or lacerations,
- poor nutrition,
- unexplained injuries,
- over-sedation or unapproved changes to medication,
- extreme weight fluctuations,
- and signs of sexual assault.
If you suspect your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, it’s important that you remove your loved one from danger as soon as possible. Once you’ve done that, consult with an attorney to better understand their rights. They may be entitled to compensation for what they’ve been through, which could be used to get them into a facility you can trust. Most important, act quickly. Your loved one’s safety may be at stake.
