Bonita Springs Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Of all the states in the country, Florida has the largest population of residents who are 60 years old or older. Due to longer life expectancies today, that population is only going to grow much larger over time. As a person gets older, they often need round-the-clock care and their loved ones are not always able to provide this care. In these instances, people may have to make the very difficult, albeit necessary, decision to place their loved one in a nursing home.
If you have had to place your loved one in a nursing home, you clearly hope they will be cared for properly. Sadly, there are reports of nursing home abuse and neglect all too often. It is critical that you know the signs of abuse, your loved one’s rights, and how to report it when it occurs. Below, our Bonita Springs nursing home abuse lawyer explains more.
What Rights Does Your Loved One Have in a Nursing Home?
Nursing home residents in Florida are protected by the Nursing Home Residents Bill of Rights in Florida. They also retain their humanitarian rights and civil rights when living in these facilities. Some of the basic rights nursing home residents have under state law are as follows:
- Privacy
- Be free from physical restraints
- Be free from mistreatment, neglect, and abuse
- Participation in family and resident groups
- Accommodations for physical, medical, social, and psychological needs
- Be treated with dignity
- Exercise self-determination
The above are just a few of the rights provided to nursing home residents in Bonita Springs. When any of these rights are violated, you should speak to an attorney that can help your family claim the compensation you deserve.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse
It is important for anyone who has a loved one in a nursing home to understand the common signs of nursing home neglect and abuse. The first step in stopping it from occurring is to know when it may be happening. Some of the most common signs are as follows:
- Restraint marks on the wrists or ankles
- Medication mistakes
- Deep bruises or bruising that happens often
- Broken bones or falls that do not have an explanation
- Inability to eat
- Infections
- Poor personal hygiene
- Weight loss that does not have an explanation
- Bed sores
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
Any time you notice the above signs of abuse, it is critical that you speak to an attorney right away. A lawyer can advise on how to report the abuse, help you remove your loved one from the facility if necessary, and make sure your family obtains the full and fair settlement you deserve.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Bonita Springs Can Help Your Loved One
If you believe your loved one has been hurt while in a long-term care facility, our Bonita Springs nursing home abuse lawyer can help. At Cardinal Law, our seasoned attorney can help you end the abuse and file a claim for damages against the facility. Call us now at 239-610-0845 or chat with us online to request a free consultation and to get the legal help you need.
