Rapid weight loss and hair loss may be signs of malnutrition and dehydration. If your loved one lives in a nursing home and is experiencing these symptoms, it could be a sign they are being neglected or subjected to nursing home abuse.
If you suspect your loved one is the victim of abuse, an Austin rapid weight loss or hair loss lawyer can help you fight for justice. The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can help nursing home residents and their families take action against the responsible party. Call our offices at (800) 842-6336 to learn how we may assist with your case.
Symptoms of Aging Can Affect a Resident’s Diet
The elderly can be vulnerable to becoming malnourished or dehydrated. Some aging issues can decrease appetite or make it more difficult to obtain food and water.
According to Mayo Clinic, a variety of physical, emotional, and social issues can affect an older adult’s diet. These may include:
● Changes in appetite, taste, and smell that come from aging
● Forgetting to eat because of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other mental health conditions
● Dietary restrictions that limit sugars, fats, and salts, which may make food less palatable
● Oral health issues, problems with dentures, and difficulty chewing and swallowing
● Lack of social interaction that can make mealtimes lonely and unenjoyable
● Illnesses and medications that can decrease appetite
For older adults living in a nursing home, rapid weight loss or hair loss could indicate they are not provided with enough food and water. It may also mean the staff is not helping with eating and drinking. This could be because of neglect, or it could be the result of abuse.
It is unacceptable for a facility to underfeed residents in an attempt to cut costs. There should always be enough staff available to help at mealtimes. Staff should be aware of complications that may make it more difficult for a resident to get proper nutrition. Food and water should never be withheld intentionally as a form of cruelty, control, or punishment.
Complications from Malnutrition and Dehydration
In addition to rapid weight loss and hair loss, malnutrition can lead to many other health problems. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, lack of nutrients can cause rashes, bruising, soft and tender bones, bleeding gums, and sensitivity to light.
If not treated, rapid weight loss in older adults can lead to severe and fatal conditions. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that malnutrition can cause an overall decline in health, resulting in reduced physical and cognitive functioning and increased mortality. Furthermore, the Cleveland Clinic affirms that chronic dehydration can cause confusion, increased heart rate, and difficulty walking.
You may want to consider hiring an Austin rapid weight loss or hair loss lawyer to help you determine how your loved one had rapid weight loss or hair loss. Reach out to Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to learn more.
For a free legal consultation with a Rapid Weight Loss or Hair Loss Lawyer serving Austin, call (800) 842-6336
Texas Elder Abuse Laws
The Texas Human Resources Code §102.003 protects the rights of the elderly. Among other things, this law guarantees freedom from neglect and all forms of abuse. Abuse can involve physical and sexual harm, emotional torment, and financial exploitation.
Unexplained accidents and injuries mark the occurrence of physical and sexual abuse. These forms of abuse, as well as emotional abuse, may also cause behavioral changes and mental health issues like depression and insomnia. If your family member is being taken advantage of financially, you may notice unpaid bills and missing money and property.
Abuse and neglect are illegal. It is also against the law for nursing home owners and employees to fail to report abuse. You can report instances of abuse to the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS). You can also send complaints in writing to the HHS, as it is authorized to investigate abuse allegations.
An Austin rapid weight loss or hair loss lawyer can represent your abuse claims in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. They can use medical evidence, witness accounts, and other proof to show that the wrongful and negligent behavior by the nursing home and its staff caused your loved one’s suffering.
You can fight for compensation on behalf of your elderly family member. You could be awarded a settlement to pay for medical costs, physical therapy, medications, hospitalizations, and any other necessary treatments and therapies required to recover from malnutrition and dehydration.
Your loved one can receive awards for their pain and suffering. They deserve compensation for the stress, trauma, and pain that could easily have been avoided with an adequate diet and sufficient care. For the elderly, even minor ailments can result in a dramatically reduced quality of life.
For all claims of personal injury or wrongful death, you will have two years to pursue your case in court, according to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003. An attorney can help you file your claim before the statute of limitations runs out, so your case will be eligible for filing. If you do not comply with this statute, then you may not be able to receive compensation.
Austin Rapid Weight Loss or Hair Loss Lawyer Near Me (800) 842-6336
Fighting Back Against Abusers
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we know that money cannot heal the physical and emotional wounds your loved one has suffered, but a settlement can help you take care of their future needs. Winning a lawsuit against the people who harmed your loved one can provide a sense of justice. It may also help ensure that they are not given a chance to hurt anyone else.
If you would like to know more about how an Austin rapid weight loss or hair loss lawyer can help you and your family, reach out to our Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 842-6336. We can provide you with a free consultation to discuss your case.
Call or text (800) 842-6336 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
