Nursing homes are smart choices for many people with elderly loved ones. Unfortunately, some medical professionals and other staff members take advantage of their positions and commit nursing home abuse. Additionally, the coronavirus pandemic may have left some nursing home residents at higher risks of neglect or mistreatment. If you're interested in filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against a nursing home due to COVID-19 complications, learn more below.

What Is Nursing Home Abuse?

This term encompasses any abuse committed against elderly individuals in a nursing home. It may take the form of physical abuse, such as hitting or shoving, or mental abuse, such as demeaning remarks. It also encompasses sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. For example, if a nursing home resident hasn't been given a bath for several days and starts to develop a skin condition, they may be a victim of neglect.

How Does COVID-19 Come Into Play?

When an emergency arises, whether it's a local flood or a global pandemic, the potential for elder abuse is magnified. Health care professionals, including doctors, nurses, janitors, and administrative staff, are obligated to protect their residents in states of emergency. When it comes to COVID-19, that means monitoring their patient's symptoms, administering testing procedures, upholding social distancing measures, and directing patients to hospital care when needed.

If a nurse ignores their patient's complaints about chest pain or a nagging cough, they may be guilty of neglect. Similarly, if a doctor refuses to test a patient showing symptoms of COVID-19, and that patient dies from related complications, they could be sued for wrongful death. Another example is if nursing home staff allows COVID-positive visitors into the residence, or ignores other social distancing guidelines, resulting in your elderly loved one contracting the virus.

If your parent survives an incident of nursing home abuse, the compensation from a personal injury lawsuit could go toward medical bills, housing costs, and other expenses. They might also receive benefits for the pain and suffering endured due to the abuse. If your loved one passed away due to a nursing home staff member's abuse, you may also be entitled to compensation for the mental trauma caused by their death.

If you're interested in filing a lawsuit against a nursing home, reach out to Bellotti Law Group, P.C. in Boston, MA. This top-rated team will work hard to fight for the compensation you or your elderly loved one deserves. To learn more about their practice areas, visit their website. To schedule a consultation and start planning your argument, call (617) 778-1000.