Athens, Bradford County Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Attorney
It is not an easy decision to put an elderly loved one in a nursing home when the demands of caring for them become too difficult. Imagine how you would feel if the facility you choose abuses or neglects your vulnerable loved one? Sadly, nursing home neglect and elderly abuse is a major issue in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. Family members should be diligent to look for the signs of abuse and neglect and take action as soon as possible to protect their elderly residents of nursing homes and long term care facilities.
Kocsis Law Office PC handles a variety of nursing home abuse and neglect cases, including:
- Neglect – Failure to ensure that the resident is receiving food, health care, and basic protection.
- Physical Abuse – Intentionally inflicting pain or injury upon an elderly individual from hitting, bruising, physical and/or chemical restraint.
- Emotional Abuse
- Abandonment
- Self Neglect
- Sexual Abuse
Signs of abuse or neglect include:
- Signs of Neglect – Bedsores, poor hygiene, lack of medical or dental care, hair or nails that are overgrown, sudden weight loss, etc.
- Signs of Physical Abuse – Unexplained bruising, marks, burns, blisters, or fractures.
- Restraint Injuries – Bruising or cuts around the wrists and ankles.
- Change of Behavioral – Withdrawing from activities, being fearful of their caretakers, etc.
- Signs Of Sexual Abuse – Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases or bruising around the private areas.
- Death – In severe cases, nursing home abuse or neglect can lead to death.
The hiring of inexperienced employees, inadequate employee screening, under staffing, and lack of qualifications often contribute to abuse and neglect.
Contact a Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Attorney For Help
If you suspect your elderly loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, you should contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Pennsylvania Department of Aging, and a local lawyer such as Kocsis Law Office PC. The facility can be cited, criminal charges could be filed, and you can make a claim or file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit to compensate your loved one. Call the firm in Athens at 570-882-4160 or send an email to schedule a free consultation at your home, hospital room or the firm’s office.