As the years go by and people get older, they may need another person to take care of them and help them with daily activities. In these cases, the most common options are direct care by a relative, hiring a nurse or caregiver, or entering a nursing home. With this last option, the older adult can have constant support and permanent surveillance by the staff.
Deciding to enter a nursing home is not easy. However, a good nursing home can help older adults spend their last years with dignity and the comforts they deserve. Unfortunately, there are cases where nursing home care staff are negligent or abusive, which can cause significant damage to victims’ physical and mental health.
The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) reports that approximately 5 million older Americans are victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation annually. These figures, unfortunately, reflect a reality that many are unaware of. However, it is crucial to be aware of the risks our older adults take when they are most in need of support.
Generally, staff who commit negligent acts act in this way with people in vulnerable situations. Since these people have limited possibilities to defend themselves, malicious workers take advantage of this situation. In most cases, the abused or neglected people are the same people who have conditions such as dementia, paralysis, or memory problems.
Different acts can be considered negligent in these cases. Among the most common cases are:
Physical abuse: Any action that causes pain, injury, or impairment.
Emotional abuse: Words or actions that cause distress.
Neglect: Any carelessness that results in discomfort, pain, or grief.
Financial Abuse: Withdrawing or using the person’s property or funds without authorization.
We understand the difficulty of dealing with an elder abuse case, especially when it involves a loved one. Our older adults deserve the best treatment, one that is dignified and based on respect and compassion.
We can help you. If you are facing an elder abuse or neglect case, do not hesitate to contact Gharibian Law.
