Our elderly members of society are increasingly suffering from neglect and abuse at the hands of nursing homes who are supposed to care for them. The results can be devastating for their health and wellbeing and, in too many tragic cases, have been linked with early death.
Many elderly people have ailments which cause problems with speech or memory, or the sedative effects of some medications prevent them from communicating the physical abuse happening to them. Others do not want to speak up about abuse for fear of retaliation from their abuser.
Abuse cases in nursing home settings are difficult to prove, so you might benefit from enlisting the help of a lawyer. If you suspect a nursing home staff member is abusing your loved one, the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm might be able to help advise you on the best course of action to prevent further harm from happening. Call today.
Physical Abuse in Nursing Homes
Elder abuse can lead to physical injuries resulting in anything from scratches and bruises to broken bones and permanent damage, often with serious long-term psychological consequences.
A Cornell University Medical College study linked shorter survival rates with older people who have suffered abuse. If you visit a loved one in a nursing care facility and have noticed any of the following, it could be a sign that they are suffering from abuse:
- Your loved one becoming quiet and withdrawn.
- Angry or aggressive behavior for no apparent reason.
- An unkempt or dirty appearance.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Sudden changes in character, such as being fearful or anxious.
- Physical injuries such as bruises, wounds, or fractures.
- The same injuries happening more than once.
- Anxiety with particular people or caregivers.
- Being unusually lighthearted and insisting there is nothing wrong.
- Not wanting to be left by themselves.
If you notice any of the above signs, it may be necessary first to see a doctor. You might also benefit from consulting a Lyons physical abuse lawyer who could help investigate your concerns. You can also contact the Adult Protective Services for help. If you are worried your loved one is in significant danger, contact the police immediately.
Proving Elder Physical Abuse
Elder abuse cases are challenging for several reasons. Your loved one may not be able to communicate that physical abuse is happening because of problems with speech following a stroke, for example, or they may have cognitive impairment arising from health conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, which affects their memory. They may be too afraid to speak up for fear of reprisals. To proceed with your claim, you will be required to prove:
- The nursing home owed a duty of care to your loved one.
- The nursing home or staff member breached that duty of care.
- The breach resulted in injury or harm to your loved one.
The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm might be able to help you conduct an investigation. They can collect the necessary evidence required for your case, and do all they can to protect the rights of your loved one, preventing further harm.
If you are worried about a loved one and think the nursing home staff are abusing them, reach out to a Lyons physical abuse lawyer today.
For a free legal consultation with a Physical Abuse Lawyer serving Lyons, call (800) 794-0444
Putting a Stop to Nursing Home Abuse
Knowing that a loved one has suffered abuse at the hands of those who are meant to care for them is very distressing, and it can seem like an uphill struggle knowing what to do for the best. You are not alone, and you do have options.
A Lyons physical abuse lawyer could talk you through the best course of legal action available to protect the rights of your loved one, to seek compensation for the harm and suffering they have endured, and to bring those responsible to justice. One of the best ways to stop the abuse is to bring the injustice to light, and hold those responsible to account.
The Illinois statute of limitations to bring a personal injury claim against a nursing home is two years from the time of the abuse, so the sooner you speak with a lawyer, the sooner they can get started working on your case so that you meet the deadline.
Lyons Physical Abuse Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Getting Legal Help
If you are searching for legal representation, the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm has secured millions in settlements for people seeking justice and compensation across the country for more than 30 years.
We fight vigorously to defend the rights of our clients, and might be able to help you and your loved one recover awards to compensate for:
- Medical costs of treatment from injuries sustained by physical abuse.
- Future rehabilitation costs.
- Physical pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Wrongful death.
We only collect our fees for the cases in which we secure a settlement, meaning you have no upfront costs. We also offer a free case evaluation during which you can voice your concerns and have your questions answered. Contact our Lyons team today for further help and advice.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
