A nursing home or elder care facility can be held legally responsible when an act of negligence causes harm to a resident. But what kind of behavior can lead to a lawsuit? Actually, there are countless accidents and intentional acts that could leave a nursing home on the hook for damages. Whether it is the act of one employee or an overall policy of the facility, you should always consider speaking with a skilled personal injury attorney. 

Physical or psychological abuse can have a detrimental impact on your loved one. Recognizing these issues can be difficult when many nursing home patients are incapable of speaking up for themselves. If you suspect that your family member is the victim of nursing home neglect, we encourage you to contact David R. Heil, PA who has offices in Winter Park, Melbourne and Orlando, Florida. We can help you recognize the signs of elder abuse and allow you to move forward with a lawsuit in confidence. 

What is considered nursing home neglect?

When an elderly person moves into a nursing home or long-term care facility, they have a certain amount of rights. A facility must provide a certain level of care that allows residents to maintain the highest amount of physical and emotional well-being. Nursing homes should also provide these services for residents in a healthy environment that enhances their quality of life. When you visit your loved one, you should look for signs of potential abuse or neglect.

For example, victims of nursing home neglect sometimes suffer a decline in basic hygiene. When facilities become understaffed, the workload increases, causing employees to overlook important necessities. If you begin to notice problems like poor body odor, bedsores, or soiled sheets, these are all signs of a serious issue. When you call Heil Law in Winter Park, Melbourne or Orlando, we will let you know what kind of behavior is inappropriate in a nursing home and explain what your rights are. 

Other common signs of nursing home neglect include: 

• Poor nutrition: keeping a proper diet is critical to the well-being of the elderly. Sometimes the right foods can help individuals avoid serious or even fatal health problems.
• Unexplained injuries: although many elderly patients are prone to minor injuries, they should not sustain broken bones or bruises in the care of a nursing home.
• Emotional changes: victims of abuse may develop emotional trauma that changes their personality and overall behavior. Abusers may intimidate victims, making them hesitant to ask for help.
• Aloof staff: if staff members increasingly avoid your questions or simply refuse to be of assistance, this could be a sign of a bigger issue. It is not unreasonable to expect them to address your concerns in a reasonable timeframe.

How to sue a nursing home for neglect

If you have noticed any of the common signs of nursing home abuse in the Winter Park, Melbourne, or Orlando area, consider taking legal action with David R. Heil, PA. While filing a claim may not reverse the effects of abuse, it can help families navigate through life long after the incident takes place. Not only that, but the abusers will be held accountable for their actions. Learn more about the claims process by contacting a member of our legal team today.