Experienced Los Angeles Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect Attorneys
Moving our mom or dad into an assisted living facility, memory care unit or nursing home is one of the toughest decisions we can make. But often, for their own comfort and safety, it must be done. When there are signs of abuse, maltreatment or neglect in a California facility, it’s time to take action. At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, we can help. Call 866-605-6149 to get immediate attention to your situation.
Defining Nursing Home Neglect In Los Angeles
Nursing home abuse and neglect are two separate issues but can both happen to a loved one. Neglect at a nursing home happens when our older and vulnerable loved ones do not receive the care and attention they need to survive. It can be caused by understaffing, inadequate training or negligent hiring. Neglect can include many behaviors but most commonly involves:
- Isolating, ignoring or not attending to the needs of the resident for long stretches of time, typically hours or even whole days or nights
- Ignoring medical issues that need attention or care
- Leaving a resident in dirty clothes; not attending to the resident’s hygiene and bathing needs
- Not providing adequate food and water; dehydration is typically indicated
- Over- or under-medicating so as to not have to “deal with” a resident
- Not providing adequate security, can lead to a resident “eloping” or leaving the premises
If your loved one suffers from injuries from falls, bedsores (also called pressure sores) or other indications of neglect, get in touch with us. We will discuss the situation with you and tell you how we can help. Call 866-605-6149 to ask a question or set up a consultation with Anna or Michael.
Types Of Nursing Home Abuse In California
At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, we understand the immense trust placed in nursing homes and the devastating impact of any breach of that trust. Our dedicated team is committed to safeguarding the rights and well-being of your loved ones by addressing and resolving cases involving the following:
- Physical abuse: Physical abuse occurs when residents experience forceful, harmful physical interactions that may result in injuries. Common signs include bruises, scratches, broken bones or the improper use of restraints.
- Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse in nursing homes involves any nonconsensual sexual interaction with a resident, often identified by unexplained injuries in private areas, sudden changes in behavior or fear of specific individuals.
- Emotional abuse: Emotional abuse targets the mental well-being of residents, manifesting through actions such as verbal assaults, threats or social isolation. Indicators can include sudden mood swings, withdrawal from activities or fearfulness.
- Financial abuse: Financial abuse involves the unauthorized or improper use of a resident’s funds, property or assets. Warning signs include unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts, changes in wills or power of attorney, and missing personal belongings.
Unfortunately, this is more common than people think. If your elderly loved one has unexplained broken bones, bruises, scratches or sores anywhere on their body, including the genital area, it’s time to investigate. If your parent is afraid of the caregivers, has a dramatic change in their mood or is suddenly withdrawn, it bears looking into it as these are signs of emotional abuse. Those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia are the most vulnerable.
As a firm that only takes personal injury cases, we have the knowledge and experience to take action. We will gather the evidence, file a lawsuit, hold those responsible accountable, and help you and your family receive financial compensation for all the related medical bills and other damages. If you lost a loved one because of someone else’s abuse or negligence, speak with us.
Warning Signs Of Nursing Home Abuse
At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, we recognize the challenges that can prevent nursing home residents from speaking out about their mistreatment. Many times, it’s not easy for them to communicate that they are being harmed, making it crucial for family members and friends to be vigilant about recognizing the warning signs of abuse.
Key warning signs of nursing home abuse:
- Unexplained injuries: Look out for cuts, bruises or broken bones that the facility cannot satisfactorily explain.
- Bruising: Any unusual bruising, especially in shapes that could indicate grabbing or restraining, should raise concerns.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or infections: Unexpected STDs or infections can be indicators of sexual abuse.
- Understaffing: A lack of adequate staff can lead to neglect, which might manifest as poor hygiene or unattended medical needs in residents.
- Changes in eating or drinking habits: If your loved one is eating or drinking less than usual, it could be a sign of emotional distress or deliberate withholding of food and water.
Understanding these signs is the first step in protecting your loved ones. If you notice any of these warning signs, do not hesitate to reach out. At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, we are here to provide the guidance, resources and legal support needed to address these serious concerns.
It’s Up To You To Take The Next Step
It is not uncommon for a family member to second-guess themselves, asking “Is it really that bad?” or “Was it just a bad day?” When it comes to our vulnerable elderly loved ones, our gut usually signals to us that something is wrong. It is far better to make an inquiry and have someone look into what happened or what is happening than to not say anything and hope for the best. Speaking out now can spare someone else the same, or worse, treatment or suffering. We will hold the negligent and responsible parties to account.
Seeking Justice For A Victim Of Nursing Home Abuse
As a team dedicated to helping injured people and their families, we recognize that dealing with a case of nursing home abuse is not only challenging but also deeply painful for victims and their families. Our commitment extends beyond legal advice; we are dedicated to providing compassionate support and thorough representation to ensure justice for those harmed. Our partner, Anna Cronk, brings a wealth of experience in handling cases of nursing home abuse and neglect. She is ready to answer your questions, offer resources and vigorously pursue the justice that your family deserves.
It costs nothing to meet with us or to have us take your case. Our fees are contingency-based, meaning we only take a fee if we win a settlement or a verdict for you. Call us at the firm to set up a meeting: 866-605-6149 or reach out to us via our inquiry form. We serve clients throughout the greater Los Angeles area.