Nursing Home Abuse FAQs

What rights do residents of nursing homes have?
A resident in a nursing home has the right to be free from verbal, sexual, physical and mental abuse, and any physical or chemical restraint that is imposed for purposes of discipline or convenience, rather than to treat a medical condition.  A nursing home that participates in the Medicare program gives rights under statute.  If a nursing home is not regulated by federal statute, its residents will still have rights under state laws.

What qualifies as "neglect" in the nursing home setting?
Neglect in a nursing home of an older person is defined as the failure to provide him or her with services essential to health and safety, such as food, clothing, supervision, and medical care.  Depending on the case these failures may either be neglect or abuse.

Why are neglect and abuse common in a nursing home?
Several reasons can often contribute to the abuse or neglect of nursing home residents, including ,poorly trained and unqualified staff, inadequate numbers of staff and, reluctance of residents to report abuse out of embarrassment or fear.  Unfortunately, many living in nursing homes are unable to properly communicate instances of nursing home neglect and abuse because of their physical or mental state.

What are some signs that nursing home abuse or neglect is occurring to a resident?

• Dehydration or malnutrition
• Bed sores (decubitus ulcers)
• Unexplainable weight loss
• Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures
• Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections; vaginal or anal bleeding
• Unsanitary conditions
• Soiled linens or clothing
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Depression
• Loss of resident's possessions
• Sudden financial changes

Where should suspected nursing home abuse be reported?
If you suspect that your family member may be the victim of nursing home abuse notify the nursing home administrator immediately.  The administration is required to investigate and report it to the state agency.  You can also contact the adult protective service.  After reporting the abuse to the administrator contact Attorney Joel Bryant at (619) 239-7900 for a free legal consultation to learn your rights and to protect them.  Mr. Bryant is committed to helping bring justice to the elderly and their families.

Why should I hire Attorney Joel Bryant?
Attorney Joel Bryant has over 20 years experience in elder abuse cases and has the resources to handle complex nursing home litigation.  Mr. Bryant will strongly advocate for the rights of your loved ones and bring to justice nursing homes and nursing home employees who cause injury or death.  If you suspect that your loved one has been the victim of less than adequate care at their nursing home contact Joel Bryant today at (619) 239-7900 for a free legal consultation.