Alabama Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

If your loved one resides in a nursing home or other care center for the elderly, keeping an eye out for telltale clues or sings that may point to abuse and neglect is a good idea. Signs of both neglect and abuse can include: Bedsores Dehydration Broken bones Unexplained bruising, sprains, welts, scars, or dislocations Falls Malnutrition Fear of and other emotional reactions towards staff Infections Staff advising you that you cannot visit your loved one Burns Untreated or new health problems Indications of restraint, such as marks on wrists Torn and/or bleeding skin Depression and anxiety Medication errors, including overmedication Sudden and unexpected trips to the hospital Intimidation, harassment, threats, belittlement, or hostile behavior Withdrawal of the resident from normal activities Agitation, demonstrated by rocking motions, mumbling, or frantic behavior Weight loss Missing funds from financial accounts Added new users to bank accounts and credit cards Suspicious changes in estate planning documents, such as wills, titles, and more

Those confined to nursing homes and other elder-care facilities have certain rights. These rights include the right to be fully informed of their health status and records, their choice of doctor and medical decisions, how they are treated, and preferences in interacting with staff and others within the home. Other rights include: Respectful treatment Freedom to participate in activities Freedom from discrimination, abuse, restraint, and neglect Freedom to make complaints Freedom to manage their money as they see fit Freedom to leave

Your first step is to discuss your concerns with the nursing home management. Document their answers. You should also consult with an attorney who can inform you about what to look for in such cases and how to further document any signs of abuse or neglect. This can include photos of your loved one and his or her surroundings in the facility. When you believe wrongful behavior has occurred, bring in an attorney to help you pursue strategic remedies.

Bedsores often develop in nursing home residents due to neglect. These injuries are common and are a result of a resident remaining in the same position for long periods of time. This generally occurs in residents confined to wheelchairs or their beds. Bedsores are also referred to as pressure ulcers, pressure sores, and pressure injuries. Without proper treatment, these sores can become infected and lead to serious medical problems for these elderly adults.