Compassionate Legal Support When You Need It Most
Compassionate Legal Support When You Need It Most

What to do if you suspect nursing home abuse

When your family places a loved one in a Maryland nursing home, it is with the expectation that he or she will receive appropriate care. This is especially critical if your loved one has a memory-related illness, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. These patients are unable to care for themselves, and they may not be able to explain if they have experienced certain types of mistreatment. A care facility is responsible for the care and support of these vulnerable individuals.

If you suspect that your loved one is not receiving the type of care he or she deserves, you have the right to speak out on his or her behalf. There are certain steps that you can take that will shield the interests of your loved one and seek justice for him or her. Quick action is critical in your efforts to hold responsible parties accountable.

Know what to do in case of a problem

One of the first signs that your loved one could be facing abuse or lack of acceptable care is the presence of injuries. If you notice an injury, your loved one may not be able to tell you what happened. You may have to ask around, seek witnesses, ask for security camera footage and more. Other steps to take if you suspect a problem with your loved one’s care include:

  • Look for common signs of abuse, such as dehydration, mental duress, depression, weight loss, bruises, bed sores and becoming withdrawn.
  • Seek information about the staff and care providers, including their qualifications, their patient care schedule, administration of medication, number of staff members and more.
  • Speak with others who have loved ones in the same facility, and take note if others have similar concerns regarding the care of their family members in the nursing home.

At the first sign of a problem, carefully document everything you see in the nursing home. This could be critical if you decide to move forward with a legal claim.

Holding care facilities accountable

It is possible to hold nursing homes and care facilities accountable for failing to provide care that meets certain standards to residents. Through the civil justice system, it is possible to fight for justice on behalf of victims with memory problems who cannot do that for themselves. At the first sign of a problem, you may benefit from an explanation of what you can do for your loved one.