When we entrust the well-being of our loved ones to a nursing home or assisted living facility, we expect them to receive the utmost care and attention. However, the unfortunate reality is that nursing home abuse and neglect are all too common occurrences. If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of such mistreatment, it is crucial to take action immediately.
At Arias Sanguinetti, our team of Westchester county nursing home injury lawyers is ready to help. We can fight for the rights and well-being of your loved one and ensure that justice is served. Let’s explore why hiring a Westchester personal injury lawyer is vital for the safety of your loved ones.
What Are Some Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse is a devastating reality that we must be aware of to protect our loved ones. By knowing the signs of nursing home abuse, we can take action and ensure the safety of our family members. There are strict, clear laws when it comes to nursing home abuse, and they’re taken very seriously. California’s most common law is known as The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA). This set of laws also includes a patient’s “Bill of Rights“. Various signs may indicate abuse or neglect in a nursing home setting.
- Physical harm: Signs such as unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts, broken bones, or bedsores should never be ignored. These signs of neglect can be indications of physical abuse or neglect. Pay attention to changes in your loved one’s behavior as well. If they become withdrawn, fearful, or agitated, it could be a sign that they are being mistreated. Elderly residents may also be slow to speak about elder abuse due to being scared of retaliation.
- Changes in hygiene or appearance: If they are constantly dirty, unkempt, or wearing soiled clothes, it may be a sign of neglect. Additionally, sudden weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition canalso be signs of nursing home negligence and neglect.
- Psychological harm/emotional harm/mental abuse/psychological abuse: Watch for signs of emotional abuse, such as changes in mood, unexplained fear or anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities. Verbal abuse can be difficult to detect, but if your loved one becomes hesitant to speak or seems afraid to voice their opinions at their long-term care facility, it may be a red flag. While it’s called by many different names, it’s never ok.
- Financial abuse: Look out for unauthorized withdrawals, changes in wills or powers of attorney, or sudden transfers of assets. Financial exploitation is a serious crime, and can easily happen to our loved ones.
By being vigilant and recognizing these signs, we can take the necessary steps to protect our loved ones from nursing home abuse. If you notice any of these signs, consult with the compassionate attorneys at Arias Sanguinetti immediately to seek justice and ensure the safety of your loved one.
What Can a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Do for You?
A Westchester nursing home neglect lawyer serving Westchester County can provide you with a range of services to support your loved one and ensure their safety. Here are five of the ways our nursing home attorneys can help:
- Investigation and evidence gathering: Our nursing home abuse lawyers will thoroughly investigate your loved one’s case. We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review medical records to build a strong case on behalf of the victim. This includes reviewing the quality of care and, period of time the elderly individual was living in the nursing home. When looking at the abuse claims, we also look at when signs of abuse were first noticed, any nursing home staff involved, any reports, backgrounds, records, and more. Our personal injury attorneys also work with experts in the field to provide a comprehensive understanding of the abuse or neglect that has occurred.
- Legal representation: A skilled nursing home lawyer will represent your loved one’s interests throughout the legal process. We will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies, nursing home facilities, alternative living arrangements, and other parties involved. We will also ensure that your loved one’s rights are protected and advocate for fair compensation for the harm they have suffered.
- Courtroom advocacy: If a settlement cannot be reached, our nursing home negligence lawyers are prepared to take your loved one’s case to court. Our goal is to ensure that justice is served and that the responsible parties are held accountable for their careless actions.
- Emotional support: Dealing with nursing home abuse is a difficult and emotional process. We understand the challenges and difficult decisions that go into choosing a nursing home or facility for a loved one. We will provide guidance, support, and compassion throughout the legal process, helping you navigate this challenging time.
- Prevention of future abuse: Hiring a nursing home abuse lawyer is not just about seeking justice for your loved one; it is also about preventing future abuse in nursing homes. By holding negligent facilities accountable, you are sending a message that mistreatment will not be tolerated. Your lawyer will work to ensure that the necessary changes are made within the nursing home to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Westchester Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Near Me 310-844-9696
What Compensation Can You Gain?
When it comes to seeking justice for your loved one who has suffered from nursing home abuse, one important question often arises: how much compensation can you get? While it is difficult to provide an exact figure, there are several factors that can determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
Severity of Abuse and Damages
The severity of the abuse and the resulting damages will play a significant role in calculating compensation. This includes physical injuries, emotional distress, medical expenses, and any long-term effects on the victim’s well-being. The more severe and long-lasting the damages, the higher the potential compensation may be.
Level of Negligence
Additionally, the responsible party’s level of negligence or intent to harm will also be considered. If it can be proven that the nursing home or its staff acted recklessly or intentionally caused harm to your loved one, it may result in higher compensation.
Medical Expenses
Financial decisions, such as medical care, psychosocial care, therapy, and rehabilitation for your loved one will also factor into the compensation amount. This can include expenses for modifying their current living situation, physical therapy, medications, and more.
Laws and Regulations
Finally, the jurisdiction in which the lawsuit is filed can impact the potential compensation. Different states have varying laws and regulations regarding nursing home abuse cases, which can influence the amount awarded in a settlement or trial.
Remember, every case is unique, and compensation amounts can vary greatly. By working with a Westchester nursing home abuse attorney, you can trust that they will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation your loved one deserves.
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Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Westchester Now
In the quest to ensure the safety and well-being of our loved ones in nursing homes, hiring a Westchester nursing home abuse lawyer is crucial. By seeking justice for your loved one, you are taking a significant step in preventing further mistreatment in these facilities. Stay vigilant and recognize the signs of nursing home abuse, and don’t hesitate to consult with an attorney if you suspect mistreatment.
When you choose to partner with Arias Sanguinetti, you will have a team on your side that has a solid reputation, effective communication skills, and a compassionate approach. Contact us now to learn about your legal options after being impacted by nursing home abuse.
Call or text 310-844-9696 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form