When you turn over care of your loved one to a nursing facility, you want to trust they are being treated and cared for in the same ways they would be looked after at home. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and nursing home neglect is a common occurrence. The first step toward stopping abuse is to know the signs. Here’s what you need to know about nursing home neglect and when you should hire a lawyer.

What Is Nursing Home Neglect?

Any negligent behavior that disregards the health and well-being of a resident can fall under the category of nursing home neglect. While abuse involves specific, targeted action that is intended to harm the resident, negligence is often not purposeful. Because many residents are less able to advocate for themselves, staff members might not understand what services and support need to be provided, which can result in neglect.

With that said, some negligence is quite intentional. A caregiver might knowingly provide substandard or nonexistent care with no regard for the health and safety of the resident, and this would qualify as abuse.

What Are the Signs of Neglect?

Regardless of whether the neglect is intentional or not, it’s still wrong, destructive, and potentially dangerous for the resident. Some common signs of neglect include bedsores, which signal that the resident has not been tended to in some time; malnutrition or rapid weight loss; and falls. Also be on the lookout for emotional changes, such as depression and social withdrawal; these can be red flags that some type of abuse or neglect is occurring.

When Should You Hire an Attorney?

As soon as you recognize signs of nursing home neglect or abuse, it's advisable to hire a lawyer. You will have to take action directly with the nursing home and the state agencies charged with protecting the elder population. This can be tricky territory to navigate, but an attorney will advocate for you at every step. They can deal with administrators and bureaucrats on your behalf and help get your loved one the care and safety they deserve. Having a lawyer working with you can send a powerful message to those who have neglected their duty, and it's the first step toward holding them legally accountable.

Let Miraldi & Barrett, Co. safeguard your rights and the dignity of your elderly loved one. Since 1949, this Lorain, OH-based legal team has been representing clients throughout Lorain County in a variety of practice areas, including nursing home neglect, medical malpractice, and personal injury cases. Call (440) 233-1100 today to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their practice areas.