If a visit to your loved one in a nursing home arouses suspicion that he or she is being abused, you should not ignore the signs. But how do you address your concerns? Where should you turn for help? In this blog, we’ve outlined the steps you should take to protect your loved one. While we hope that you never have to deal with this situation, it is important to be prepared just in case.
Here are the steps you should take:
- Ask your loved one about the situation first to see if they can tell you what is going on. However, keep in mind that even patients who are mentally capable of answering your questions may still be reluctant to do so. The reason for this may be that he or she is fearful of retaliation from their abuser, or because they feel that they shouldn’t complain and should simply accept whatever happens to them.
- Unless you have reason to believe that your loved one’s life is in imminent danger (if so, you should immediately call 911), it is best to keep calm and bring your concerns to the nursing home’s administration. By law, they are required to address any concerns you have about the care of your relative. Although this is an emotional issue, keep your conversation professional and calm and avoid making any outright accusations.
- If administration fails to offer a satisfactory explanation or offer to investigate your concerns, or if your loved one’s condition fails to improve or even worsens, further action should be taken. The next step is to file a complaint with the appropriate state agency. In Kentucky, this is the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Then, you should get in touch with a qualified attorney who can investigate your case and help you understand your legal options.
Goeing Goeing & McQuinn PLLC tenaciously represents victims and families in nursing home abuse cases. If you or your loved one has suffered an injury or loss related to physical, emotional, or financial abuse or neglect, we encourage you to take immediate action. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Not only can a lawsuit provide you with the financial resources you are owed for your suffering, but it can also protect others by deterring future misconduct. Our compassionate team is committed to justice and is prepared to help you achieve it.
To schedule a free consultation with a Lexington nursing home abuse attorney at our firm, please call (859) 253-0088 or fill out an online contact form.