| According to the National Institute on Aging, there | | | | you may want to move on. Finding suitable |
| were an estimated 1.5 million nursing home residents | | | | arrangements for an elderly parent does not |
| in 2004 alone. In the last couple of years, these | | | | however, does not mean that abuse will not occur. |
| numbers have increased significantly. While nursing | | | | There are various types of elder abuse that may |
| homes can provide a useful service, it has sadly | | | | take place. Some of the most common types of |
| become a source of fear for some residents. Elder | | | | abuse can include both physical and emotional abuse, |
| abuse has become a widespread problem in the long | | | | neglect, and stealing from the resident. At times, |
| term care facilities, assisted living centers, and other | | | | signs of the abuse may seem obvious, while in other |
| residencies designed to protect the elderly. | | | | instances it may not be as noticeable. Recognizing the |
| However, residents and the family of these persons | | | | signs of abuse and neglect of an elderly parent can |
| do have rights and legal options to pursue which may | | | | make a difference. |
| include both criminal and civil action. This is why it is | | | | Visit often and take note of how your parent |
| so important that a personal injury lawyer be | | | | behaves in the presence of staff. Fear, anxiety, and |
| consulted when and if an individual believes a loved | | | | unexplained bruising are only a few warning signs. If |
| one is being subjected to abuse by a caregiver. Elder | | | | you believe that your parent is being abused in any |
| abuse is preventable and should not be tolerated. If a | | | | manner, speak out. Immediately removing the |
| parent needs long term care, there are a few simple | | | | resident from danger, contacting the family law |
| things that can decrease the chance of abuse. | | | | lawyer, and the local ombudsman should be the first |
| Investigating the facility and speaking with some of | | | | steps taken. |
| the other residents and their family before choosing | | | | The facility should be held accountable for their |
| a nursing home is always a good idea. Take time to | | | | actions. As the population of seniors increase, so |
| visit the facility. Is it well staffed? Statistics indicate | | | | does the need for quality care free from abuse and |
| that elder abuse is more prevalent in nursing homes | | | | neglect. Utilizing legal options not only protects the |
| with staffing issues. | | | | victim, but can help prevent abuse from happening to |
| Does someone take the time to listen to your | | | | someone else. A personal injury lawyer can help the |
| concerns and answer any questions that you may | | | | abused resident and the family get the entitlement |
| have? These are just a few of the things that should | | | | that they deserve and help put a stop to abuse and |
| be considered before placing a parent in a nursing | | | | neglect at the hands of a caregiver. |
| home. If you don't feel comfortable with the facility, | | | | |