At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we are concerned of the growing problem of nursing home abuse in our state. It’s a distressing reality that the elderly, especially those residing in nursing homes, are at an elevated risk of becoming victims of such abuse. We understand that entrusting the care of a loved one to a nursing home is a significant decision. It’s a decision that should be met with the utmost care, respect, and security for your loved one. When that trust is betrayed, it can leave families feeling devastated and unsure of what to do next.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse is the first step towards protecting your loved ones. It’s essential to understand that nursing home abuse can take on many forms – physical, emotional, sexual, and financial. Physical signs of abuse are the easiest to identify, including:
- Unexplained injuries like bruises, burns, or fractures
- Bedsores or pressure ulcers
- Dehydration or malnutrition
- Poor personal hygiene
Other forms of abuse, such as emotional or financial, might be more challenging to spot, but they can be just as harmful. Signs can include sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal, depression, or unexpected financial transactions.
Who’s Most at Risk of Nursing Home Abuse?
Abuse can occur more frequently amongst residents who are unconscious, immobile, or have limited mobility due to their heightened need for care. Similarly, residents with cognitive impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, are at a higher risk because they may be less likely to report the abuse or may be unaware it’s happening. Proximity to family and friends also plays a role; residents who receive few visitors are more likely to be victims of abuse. Regardless of these factors, the responsibility of preventing abuse falls squarely on the nursing home.
Dangers of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences. Physically, the abuse can result in injuries, infections, malnutrition, dehydration, and in extreme cases, death. Emotionally, the abused individuals may experience depression, suicidal thoughts, fear, withdrawal, and personality changes. It’s important to understand that the emotional toll can be as detrimental as the physical harm.
Nevada Standard of Care
The State of Nevada maintains strict regulations for care in nursing homes and similar facilities. These regulations establish a standard of care that nursing homes are expected to uphold. Failure to adhere to this standard can result in a breach of duty of care and can hold the nursing home or healthcare provider liable for any resulting harm.
What If My Loved One Died as a Result of Nursing Home Abuse?
If a loved one has died due to nursing home abuse, close family members or a representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Damages recoverable from such a lawsuit can include medical expenses, pain and suffering of the deceased person, funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the survivors’ mental anguish.
Should You Hire the Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys at Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers?
At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we bring decades of experience and specialized knowledge to build a strong case for maximum compensation. We believe in the principle of trust and dignity for those residing in nursing homes. When that trust is betrayed, we are here to fiercely advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Nursing Home Abuse Case FAQs
Yes, you can sue a nursing home for abuse or neglect. Under Nevada law, nursing homes are obligated to provide a certain standard of care. If they fail to do so and your loved one is harmed as a result, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Compensation in nursing home abuse cases may cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in some cases, punitive damages. If the abuse leads to the death of the resident, the family can also pursue a wrongful death claim, which could cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
The statute of limitations for nursing home abuse claims in Nevada is generally two years from the date of the discovery of the injury. However, there may be exceptions or extensions in certain circumstances, so it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis for nursing home abuse cases. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for your case.
Retaliation against a resident who reports abuse is illegal. If your loved one fears retaliation, it’s crucial to discuss this with the nursing home management and your attorney. A plan can be developed to protect your loved one, which could involve moving them to a new facility or increasing oversight at their current residence.
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Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers is available to help you handle any nursing home abuse in the Las Vegas metropolitan area and beyond.
Call us at (702) 633-3333 or contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.