Physical Abuse - Nursing Home Abuse

It is a difficult decision to place our loved ones is an assisted living establishment, but when we do, we do so with the trust that these facilities are going to provide the best possible care. It is unconscionable to think that the people with whom we have put so much faith in could physically abuse the elderly, but the unfortunate reality is that as our elderly population begins to rise so do the cases of nursing home abuse. Often times the victims of physical abuse are the ones that are the most vulnerable, with disabilities or dementia. In other cases, residents are afraid to report abuse in fear of embarrassment or retaliation. It is important for you to be informed of common signs of physical abuse:

•unexplained contusions (bruises), burns, cuts, or broken bones
•frequent injuries or abrasions
•unexplained agitation or fearfulness in resident
•bloody or torn clothing
•frequent arguments or tension between caregiver or resident
• staff does not let family members meet alone with resident

If you believe that your loved one is the victim of physical abuse then it is important to act quickly. No one should spend their golden years in an abusive environment, and the ones who have are guilty of this abuse should be prevented from repeating the vicious cycle with others. The reality is that as many as 30% of nursing homes are cited for instances of abuse, and even still, the evidence shows that the majority of abuse goes unreported.

If you or a loved one reside in a nursing home or elder care facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania or New Jersey, and think you have witnessed some form of elder abuse, nursing home neglect or medical negligence, it is important that you act quickly. Our experienced team of nursing home lawyers specializes in elder abuse law representing victims of elderly abuse, abuse in retirement homes, doctor malpractice, and dental malpractice.

Nursing home abuse is unacceptable, but all data points to the fact that it is on the rise - litigation is a powerful tool in correcting the industry. If your loved one has been the victim of abandonment then they may be entitled to compensation for injuries and associated medical costs, pain and suffering, and even wrongful death. Our dedicated and experienced nursing home attorneys are committed to fighting for your case and getting you the settlement you deserve.

If you are looking to educate yourself about abuse in nursing homes, read about recent nursing home injury and medical malpractice lawsuits, or research local nursing home neglect attorneys, visit the American Justice Network, the leading free legal information center and attorney referral service. For free legal advice Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, please fill out the contact form or call us toll free at 866-484-6992.