Nursing Home Abuse

Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Moving a loved one to a nursing home is never an easy decision. Even with thorough research, there is no guarantee that the facility you choose is free from abuse and neglect. Nursing homes are often understaffed, leaving residents vulnerable. If you suspect your family member is the victim of neglect or abuse in a nursing home, it is crucial to take immediate action. Please get in touch with an Illinois nursing home abuse lawyer right away.

Nursing Home Abuse Statistics

Illinois elder abuse is a growing problem. Determining accurate statistics for nursing home abuse is impossible. Many incidents go unreported because the facility covers it up or the victim cannot convey what happened. According to the Illinois Department of Aging, the Ombudsman Program received 6,551 complaints during the fiscal year 2020. Of this total, 4,651 complaints involved nursing homes.

The single largest complaint relates to improper facility-initiated discharges. Other complaints involved a violation of rights, poor food services, unattended symptoms, lack of dignity and respect, and more.

Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse

Abuse of the elderly in nursing homes can take several different forms. The four main types of abuse are as follows:

• Physical abuse. Physical abuse involves actions such as kicking, hitting, pushing, unnecessary use of restraints, shoving, etc.
• Emotional abuse. Mental and emotional abuse involves name-calling, belittling, verbal abuse, threats, isolation, and withholding medication, food, or water.
• Sexual abuse. Unfortunately, sexual abuse happens more often than you think. It is not limited to rape but can involve exposing private parts, unwanted touching, and more.

The main difference between abuse and neglect is neglect does not involve intentional harm. However, nursing home neglect should not be dismissed. It can have catastrophic results, including death.

Watch for Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Family members must remain vigilant and watch for potential signs of abuse and neglect when visiting. Unfortunately, not all instances of abuse or neglect are easy to identify. Potential red flags include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Unexplained injuries, burns, marks, or lacerations;
• Sexually transmitted diseases;
• Anxiety or depression;
• Unexplained changes in personality or mood;
• Withdrawal from people and activities; and
• Restraint marks.

Pay attention to your loved one’s room conditions, too, such as:

• Unclean clothing or bedding;
• Dirty room, trash piling up, food trays not removed;
• Medication piling up;
• Bed sores and skin ulcers; and
• Malnourishment.

If you have concerns about your loved one’s treatment, it is imperative to act. If your family member’s life is at risk, call 911 and get them to safety. Residents of nursing homes have federal rights and protections. The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act also establishes residents’ rights and the legal responsibilities of all facilities.

When you believe a resident’s rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Services. Your next step is to speak with a lawyer who understands how to pursue a claim for nursing home abuse and neglect.

Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Illinois

If you are searching for nursing home abuse lawyers in Chicago, contact Polivick Law Firm. Working with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer is the best way to protect your loved one. By reporting the facility, you can help protect other residents from suffering similar harm.

Attorney John Polivick is passionate about helping injured victims get justice. He draws from his prior experience representing multinational companies to build a solid case against the nursing home. Please get in touch with our office if you suspect Illinois nursing home abuse or neglect. Let us help protect your family member from any further harm.