As Kentucky nursing home abuse attorneys, we understand that nursing homes and assisted care facilities can be vulnerable environments for seniors. The elderly are often unable to protect themselves from abuse and neglect, making them easy targets for unscrupulous caregivers.
If you or someone you care about has experienced abuse or neglect in a Georgetown, Kentucky nursing home or assisted care facility, contact Gray & White Law today at 502-210-8942 | toll-free at 888-450-4456 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.
Types of Abuse and Neglect in Kentucky Nursing Homes and Assisted Care Facilities
Nursing homes and assisted care facilities can be hotbeds of abuse and neglect. These facilities are often understaffed and have high turnover rates, contributing to neglectful and abusive situations. The types of abuse and neglect that can occur in a nursing home or assisted living facility are:
- Physical Abuse: Physical abuse in a nursing home can be any intentional act that causes bodily harm to a resident, including hitting, slapping, pushing, or kicking. Physical abuse can also include the inappropriate use of physical restraints.
- Psychological Abuse: Psychological abuse is any intentional act that causes emotional distress or harm to a resident. Psychological abuse can include intimidation, verbal abuse, isolation, and threats.
- Neglect/Negligence: Neglect or negligence in a nursing home occurs when a resident does not receive the care they need, including failing to provide food, water, medication, or medical treatment.
- Financial Abuse: Financial abuse occurs when a caregiver or staff member takes advantage of a resident’s finances or property. Financial abuse can include stealing money or possessions, forging signatures, or manipulating a resident to sign financial documents.
- Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse is any sexual act forced upon a resident, including unwanted touching or sexual assault.
Common Causes of Abuse and Neglect in Kentucky Senior Living Centers
Abuse and neglect can occur for various reasons in senior living centers, but some of the most common causes include:
- Falls and Poor Facility Maintenance: Falls are common in senior living centers, and poor facility maintenance can increase the likelihood of falls.
- Medication Errors: Medication errors can occur when a caregiver or staff member administers the wrong medication or the wrong dose. Medication errors can lead to serious health problems or even death.
- Understaffing: Understaffing is a common issue in nursing homes and assisted care facilities. When there are not enough staff members to provide adequate care, it can lead to neglectful situations.
- Improper Hygiene: Improper hygiene can contribute to infections and other health problems. When a facility does not maintain proper hygiene standards, it can put residents at risk of illness or injury.
Common Injuries Suffered As a Result of Nursing Home Abuse
When a nursing home resident is subjected to abuse or neglect, they can suffer a range of injuries, including:
- Bedsores: Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, can occur when a resident is immobile for extended periods. Bedsores can be painful and can lead to serious infections.
- Broken Bones and Bruises: Physical abuse can lead to broken bones and bruises. These injuries can be painful and can take a long time to heal.
- Malnutrition and Dehydration: Neglect can lead to malnutrition and dehydration, which can cause serious health problems, including organ failure and death.
- Death: In severe cases, nursing home abuse and neglect can result in the death of the resident.
Signs an Assisted Living Resident Has Been Abused or Neglected
There are several common signs that a resident of a nursing home or assisted care facility has been abused or neglected, including:
- Unexplained injuries
- Weight loss or malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Bedsores
- Depression or withdrawal
- Fear or anxiety; and
- Dramatic changes in the resident’s behavior or personality
Our Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys Serve All of Kentucky. Contact Us Today!
If you suspect a loved one has been abused or neglected in a nursing home or assisted care facility in Georgetown, Kentucky, it is essential to seek help immediately. Our experienced Georgetown nursing home abuse lawyers care about our clients’ case results and can help you hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions and get you the compensation you deserve.
We understand that elder abuse and neglect cases are complex and sensitive, and we approach each case with compassion and understanding. Our personal injury lawyers will investigate your case thoroughly and work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve.
Our Georgetown nursing home abuse attorneys serve all of Kentucky and are dedicated to helping victims of abuse and neglect. Contact Gray & White Law today at 502-210-8942 | toll-free at 888-450-4456 for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your loved one’s rights.