Nursing home abuse is a prevalent problem in Syracuse and across Central New York. It can take many forms and affects seniors who trust that a nursing home will care for them as they age. A skilled attorney can help families obtain compensation for their loved ones’ injuries, moving them to a safer environment and getting them appropriate medical care.
Elder abuse is a crime and can include physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Abuse often occurs when people are exploited by their caregivers, whether those caregivers are family members or members of the staff at a nursing home. Elders are often unable to speak for themselves or to protect their rights, making them more vulnerable than others. Our attorneys have handled cases involving abuse and neglect in nursing homes across the state of New York.
Sadly, some nursing home operators put profits ahead of the well-being of their residents. They are understaffed, pay low wages to nurses and nursing assistants, and hire unqualified people with minimal experience. This puts all residents at risk of abuse and neglect.
Our lawyers can file a complaint with the New York Department of Health, which will launch an investigation. They will visit the facility, conduct interviews, review records, and if warranted, issue a citation. We can also file a civil lawsuit, seeking maximum compensation on behalf of your loved one.
A skilled nursing home abuse Amputation attorney pursuing fair compensation will gather all evidence, including any documentation of mistreatment, to build a strong case. We will also contact the nursing home’s attorney and insurance company, negotiating and advocating for your loved one.
The most common type of nursing home abuse is neglect. Neglect can be as subtle as not feeding a hungry person or failing to bathe a patient regularly. It can also be more serious, such as leaving a patient in bed for extended periods of time or failing to administer medication. It can even be as heinous as sexual assault and suffocation.
Sexual abuse in nursing homes can be as simple as unwanted touching or rape or as severe as sodomy and forced participation in sex acts. These crimes are often perpetrated by members of the staff, but may also be committed by fellow residents.
Suffocation in nursing homes is very common and is usually caused by being tangled up in blankets or becoming stuck under bed rails. It can be life threatening and must be reported immediately.
A successful nursing home abuse lawsuit will result in a maximum payout of your loved one’s damages, covering their pain and suffering, mental anguish, hospital and doctor bills and other costs related to the abuse and/or neglect. It is important to act as quickly as possible when you discover signs of abuse or neglect, as there are specific time limits in place for filing a claim. Our legal team will work swiftly to move your loved one to a safe environment and get them the appropriate treatment.