Care home neglect is a serious issue that is unfortunately all too common in care facilities.
It is important to recognize the signs of neglect and respond promptly, while knowing about nursing home abuse and elderly rights in Arizona.
According to the National Council on Aging, approximately one in 10 seniors experiences abuse.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, that figure increased to one in five.
Elder abuse and neglect are serious problems for many seniors and their loved ones.
What is considered nursing home neglect?
In this guide, we will explain what is reportable, the types of neglect common in care facilities, and the evidence you need to strengthen your case and achieve justice for your loved one.
Let’s begin.
What Is Reportable in a Nursing Home?
If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect, you must report it immediately to Arizona Adult Protective Services.
APS specializes in handling claims of neglect for vulnerable adults, including seniors.
Exploitation
Caregivers may exploit your loved one for financial resources.
Exploitation can range from pressuring your loved one to give them money or access to accounts to outright theft.
They may also persuade your loved one to sign fraudulent documents or sign under false pretenses.
Neglect
Neglect involves failing to properly care for a resident.
It is a very broad definition that can cover everything from lack of physical care to emotional abuse and an unsafe environment.
Abuse
When you picture abuse, you may imagine a caregiver physically harming your loved one.
However, many forms of elder abuse exist, including:
- Financial abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
Unsafe Conditions
If you visit your loved one and see conditions that are unsafe for caregivers or residents, this is a reportable offense.
Seniors who are prone to falls may be more at risk for a serious injury due to slippery floors, and dust and debris can exacerbate existing breathing problems.
Understaffing
Many forms of elder abuse and nursing home neglect stem from understaffing.
Staff members may ignore patient needs under the guise of not having enough time to manage all of their responsibilities.
Chronic understaffing in care facilities can lead to unsafe conditions and neglect.
What Is Considered Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing home neglect occurs when caregivers do not properly look after their residents.
Here are some of the key signs to look for if you think that your loved one may be experiencing care home neglect.
Lack of Food or Water
Caregivers do not give your loved one enough food or water, or wait too long between mealtimes.
They may also fail to follow diet protocols or food restrictions.
Leaving Residents Alone for Long Periods
Even in care homes where residents have more independence, they should not be left alone for long periods.
Visit your loved one for a day and note how often staff check in to help with tasks such as using the bathroom.
Not Appropriately Administering Medications
Appropriate care relies on proper medication administration.
Many medications for seniors must be administered at specific intervals or a certain number of times daily.
Failure to Assist With Necessary Tasks
Ensure that your loved one receives the assistance they need to complete everyday tasks.
For example, it may be difficult for them to cut their food, so they may require help from a caregiver.
An Unsafe or Unclean Environment
Ask your loved one how often they are bathed in the care facility.
Check their living quarters for signs of dust or dirt buildup.
See if there are any hazards present that could cause them to slip or fall.
What Are Some of the Long-Term Consequences of Care Home Neglect?
Even if you can move your loved one to a better facility and receive compensation for damages, there are still many ongoing consequences of care home neglect.
Your loved one may have trouble trusting future caregivers or respond with fear or aggression.
Physical issues, such as personal injury caused by neglect, can be deadly for seniors.
Malnutrition or dehydration may be resolved with early treatment, but if they have gone on for too long, they can be deadly.
What Is the Compensation for Care Home Neglect Cases?
It is difficult to quantify the compensation your loved one can receive if they sue for care home neglect.
The total amount is based on a variety of factors, like:
- Economic damages, such as doctor visits, rehabilitation, therapy bills, relocation expenses, and more
- Non-economic damages, including:
- Physical and emotional pain
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of dignity
- Psychological suffering
- The severity of the harm inflicted
- The strength of evidence used to establish a case of negligence
- Expertise of your legal team
- The type of neglect suffered
- The care institution’s or facility’s insurance
How to Avoid Care Home Neglect
The best way to avoid care home neglect is to steer clear of facilities with lower ratings and shady reputations.
Research thoroughly before deciding on a care home for your loved one.
Look at online review sites and ask family and friends for recommendations.
Carefully compare pricing options for every facility. If it seems like a deal is too good to be true, it probably is.
Care facilities with prices far below average may be cutting corners, hiring staff under the table, or attempting to attract residents despite a bad reputation.
Know Your Legal Options for Neglect and Nursing Home Abuse
What is considered nursing home neglect?
If you are concerned that a loved one is experiencing care home neglect, it is crucial to act quickly.
Contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options for seeking justice and compensation.
With offices in Tempe, Tucson, and Scottsdale, Bailey Law Firm is ready to assist with your care home neglect case.
Our experienced team has the knowledge of Arizona elder care laws to handle your case with care, sensitivity, and professionalism.
Would you like to learn more about the services our firm can offer?
Book a consultation with us today, or visit one of our three offices in person.
Need Experienced Nursing Homes Abuse Attorneys?
Turn to Bailey Law Firm, your trusted advocates for justice in nursing home abuse and neglect cases. Our team of former prosecutors and seasoned trial lawyers fights tirelessly to protect vulnerable loved ones and hold negligent facilities accountable. With over $20 million recovered for clients across Arizona, we bring compassion, experience, and strength to every case.
Call (480) 681-5408 or request a free consultation online today!
