Do You Suspect Neglect at Your Loved One’s Nursing Home?

Posted on June 1, 2021 by admin

Whether it’s your parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or spouse, having a loved one in a nursing home is an experience filled with emotional highs and lows. But no matter what the circumstance is for you and your family, your loved one should never have to suffer abuse or neglect. If you are concerned that your loved one’s nursing care is not up to standard, or you suspect that neglect is taking place, it is vital that you investigate right away.

Start by spending more in-person time with them and discuss their daily experiences and schedules. This can help you identify the common signs of nursing home neglect and elder abuse. You should also speak with the staff and attending physicians about your concerns as well.

Continue reading to learn what signs to look for that suggest abuse or neglect is taking place, and what you can and should do about it.

Indianapolis Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer 317-881-2700

Nursing Home Neglect Cases

Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect is far too common. There are many types of neglect and abuse that can happen at a nursing home or senior care center, and they usually present themselves in tell-tale signs. However, elders don’t always speak up and notify someone when they are experiencing abuse, neglect, or any other kinds of problems in their care home. When elders are abused or neglected, they often hide it, while many others don’t even realize it’s happening to them. But if you keep a keen eye on your loved one and their habits, you should be able to identify the many signs and symptoms of nursing home abuse and neglect.

Common Types of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse:

▷ Wrongful Death
▷ Moving Injuries
▷ Inappropriate Use of Restraints
▷ Physical Assault
▷ Sexual Assault
▷ Not Enough Staff
▷ Emotional or Verbal Abuse
▷ Medication Malpractice
▷ Failure to Use Bed Rails Causing Falls
▷ Failure to Remove Elders from Wheelchairs Properly
▷ Prolonged Isolation or Abandonment
▷ Neglect (allowing/ignoring self-harm, etc.)
▷ Hygienic Neglect
▷ Unqualified Staff
▷ Financial Abuse
▷ Inattentive Staff (slip and falls, leaving the facility, simply not caring, etc.)

How to Identify the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect and Elder Abuse:

▷ Staff advising of Self-Harming/Self-Abuse
▷ Depression
▷ Mood Instability
▷ Personality Changes
▷ Poor Hygiene
▷ Financial Inconsistencies/Problems
▷ Missing Money
▷ Malnutrition
▷ Extreme Weight Loss
▷ Severe Dehydration
▷ Bed Sores
▷ Orthopedic Fractures
▷ Unexplained Injuries or Bruises
▷ Missing Valuables
▷ Prolonged Isolation or Abandonment

What to Do if Your Loved One is Showing Signs of Elder Abuse or Neglect

If you suspect your elder is being abused, neglected, or mistreated at their assisted living center, your first step is to contact a seasoned and trusted Indiana nursing home neglect lawyer to learn your rights and best course of action. They have the resources and experience to implement proper investigation, information gathering, and questioning that will lead to proving fault and damages. You could obtain substantial compensation for your loved one’s losses, including pain and suffering and mental anguish. You should always take photos and keep notes on names of persons involved, dates and issues to go over with your attorney.

Are you ready to obtain justice for your abused or neglected loved one? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 and schedule a free consultation with an experienced nursing home neglect lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent clients all throughout the state, and never collect attorney fees unless we prevail for you.

You Should Read:

FAQS Regarding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Are Bed Rails a Safety Concern for the Elderly?
Fractured Hip Injuries and Elderly Slip and Fall Accidents

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700 — Schedule a Free Consultation!

Common Signs and Symptoms of Nursing Home Elder Abuse

Posted on September 18, 2020 by admin

If your loved one is currently living in a nursing home, or will be entering one soon, it is important to you that they are being cared for to the best of the staff’s abilities. Unfortunately, the industry’s employment turnover rate is high, and it is difficult for many establishments to retain a sufficient staff of fully-qualified caregivers. For these reasons, it is common for seniors to experience different levels of abuse and neglect. So how do you know your loved one is in good hands? There are various signs of nursing home abuse and neglect that you can look out for if you suspect any maltreatment is taking place.

Continue reading to learn more about elder abuse and neglect, including common signs exhibited by patients, as well as, which steps to take if you are concerned about the standard of care at your loved one’s Indiana care facility.

Indianapolis Elderly Abuse Lawyers 317-881-2700

What is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?

It is important to understand that the circumstances surrounding neglect can vary greatly, especially since it can happen both intentionally and unintentionally. Sometimes, a staff member is unaware of the level of care a patient requires because they are insufficiently trained, and as a result, neglect to meet the patient’s nursing needs, resulting in harm to the patient. In other cases, a staff member might be in denial about a patient’s true needs, or simply refuse to provide certain levels of treatment because they think it’s unnecessary. In egregious cases, staff deliberately abuse elderly patients, verbally, mentally, emotionally, or physically. Yet, regardless of intention, it is 100% immoral, unethical, unacceptable, and against the law.

Common Types of Elder Neglect

➤ Emotional – This type of disregard for a patient can occur in many forms, such as being yelled at or ignored or left alone for long periods of time. Verbal and mental abuse are also common examples of emotional neglect.

➤ Basic Needs – When a patient’s basic needs are not being met, whether intentional or unintentional, it can be described as basic needs neglect. Basic needs include things like food, water, bathroom, and being kept in a safe environment.

➤ Medical – Medical neglect can occur when a patient’s medical needs are not being met. This includes medical treatments, medications, or general attention and supervision.

➤ Personal Hygiene – Personal hygiene neglect can be another form of basic needs neglect. It can occur when a patient is denied the proper bathing, grooming, clothing changes, and other standard hygienic practices.

Possible Signs of Elder Neglect

The signs of elder abuse and neglect can be very obvious, entirely undetectable, or somewhere in between. It is important to pay close attention to your loved one in order to evaluate their quality of life and the level of care they are being given. Possible signs of elder abuse or neglect include poor hygiene, weight loss, mood changes, unexplained or mysterious injuries, decreased muscle strength, stiffness or lack of mobility, unsanitary conditions in the home, reduced interest in activities or companionship, anxiety, depression, and other drastic physical or emotional changes.

If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of elder abuse or nursing home neglect, it is important to discuss your concerns with a licensed Indiana personal injury lawyer right away. They can help you understand your legal options and recommend the best course of action for protecting your loved one.

Indianapolis Indiana Elder Abuse Lawyers Who Can Help Your Loved One

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a personal injury lawyer about making a nursing home neglect claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are extensively experienced and well-versed in Indiana elder abuse law, and can stand up to the insurance company and demand the maximum offer for your loved one’s damages. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and determine if you are entitled to remuneration for your family’s damages. As an added convenience for our clients, we never collect lawyer fees unless we obtain a settlement or verdict.

What To Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

Posted on October 25, 2019 by admin

When you suspect misconduct or abuse in your loved one’s care facility, it is important to take action fast before any more harm can be done. But many people are insure how to investigate or report nursing home abuse to the proper authorities.

If you are concerned that a loved one is being mistreated or neglected at their live-in care facility, continue reading to learn how to spot the signs, where to report your concerns, and what legal options you might have for recovering compensation for your and your loved one’s damages and losses.

Indianapolis Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers 317-881-2700

Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home and live-in care facility abuse can come in many forms and in various environments. However, virtually all forms of nursing home abuse fall into one or more of four primary categories: financial abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and financial exploitation. Within these primary categories lies a long list of possible misconducts and neglectful actions.

Most often, neglect plays a major role in all these situations; and although it can also come in many forms, neglect is basically a failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and/or health care for a resident. It is also important to note that such situations of live-in care facility neglect can happen to non-elderly individuals, such as those with mental and physical handicaps and special needs.

Nursing Home Abuse Statistics

According to a study conducted and documented by the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) in 2000, of all the nursing home residents surveyed, 44% claimed they had experienced some form of abuse or maltreatment within the past 12 months. In the same study, more than 95% of the residents interviewed stated they have witnessed some form of neglect or suffered neglect themselves within the past year. Even more troubling, the National Center on Elder Abuse also reported that 1 out of 24 cases of nursing home neglect and abuse are actually reported.

Signs of Nursing Home Mistreatment

There are numerous signs to look out for if you suspect that a resident is being mistreated or neglected in some way at their live-in care facility. Signs of physical or sexual abuse are easier to identify, as they often come in the form of bruises, wounds, broken bones, depression, fear, anxiety, social withdrawal, and even unexplained sexually transmitted diseases. Mental and emotional abuse are a bit more challenging to spot unless you take a closer look. Signs of emotional abuse can reveal itself in the form of fear, anxiety, depression, mood swings, lack of energy, withdrawal from social circles, and similar uncharacteristic changes in behavior.

Signs of financial abuse and exploitation can also come in many forms. If a care giver withholds affordable amenities and comforts in their dwelling, or has control over one’s finances but fails to provide for their ward, it is a form of abuse. Other signs a victim might show include uncharacteristically excessive gift-giving, financial payouts for companionship, signing over power of attorney or will without understanding the transaction, and similar actions.

Basic neglect entails conditions and actions such as:

Failure to provide…

► Basic hygiene or appropriate clothing;
► Appropriate clothing;
► Nutritional food;
► Medical aids (i.e. Glasses, cane, walker, dentures, hearing aid, or medications);
► Clean and safe dwelling;
► Adequate facilities (i.e. kitchen appliances, HVAC, plumbing, electricity)

Actions such as….

► Leaving a resident with dementia unsupervised;
► Confining a resident in bed without care;
► Not treating bed sores or pressure ulcers;

How to Report Nursing Home Abuse

If you feel that your loved one’s situation or condition is an emergency, contact 911 right away.

If you strongly suspect that your loved one is not being adequately cared for in their nursing home or live-in care facility, your first priority is to get in touch with a professional who can represent your family’s best interests. You can choose to contact Adult Protective Services (APS), or visit the National Council on Child Abuse and Family Violence website for a list of elder abuse reporting hotlines in Indiana. You also have the option of using the U.S. Administration on Aging Eldercare Locator, which can connect you to services for elder care and more.

Once you know your loved one is safe, contact a nursing home abuse lawyer for information on your rights to recovering compensation for your damages and losses, such as medical bills, hospital expenses, lost wages, prolonged therapy, restitution, and more.

Indiana Elder Abuse Lawyers You Can Trust

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed Indiana nursing home neglect lawyer about your loved one’s live-in care facility conditions and experiences. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are well-versed and experienced in elder abuse law. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and determine if you are entitled to remuneration for your family’s damages. Also, we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you!

Personal Injury Accidents That May Also Have Criminal Penalties

Posted on July 8, 2019 by admin

Criminal law involves crimes prosecuted by the state or federal government, rather than a private party or person. Criminal violations, like felonies and misdemeanors, are subjected to state and federal punishment; therefore, guilty individuals face jail time, probation, governmental fines, and in extreme cases, the capital punishment.

In contrast to criminal law, civil law is the area of the American legal system that manages disputes or wrong-doings between private parties and prosecuted by private parties most usually. A common example of such cases involve personal injuries. If someone is wrongfully injured by another person demonstrating negligence or malicious intent, they can ask the court or jury to decide who is at-fault and if the negligent party should pay remuneration to the injured person.

When it comes to tort law, or personal injury law, some accidents can render both civil and criminal consequences for the at-fault party. Continue reading to learn some examples of when an individual may also face state or federal charges for carelessly causing an accident that results in someone’s injury or harm.

Personal Injury Attorney Law Firm 317-881-2700

Civil and Criminal Lawsuits

Although murder is a crime against a person, the crime itself goes against state and federal law, therefore making it a criminal case, in addition to a civil one. These cases usually go to a jury trial where defendants are prosecuted by the state. In criminal litigation, defendants are allowed to appoint their own attorney, or have one appointed to them by the state if they cannot afford to pay for one themselves. In the case of murder or homicide, the family of the victim may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim in civil court, and collect compensation for their loss, whether a child, spouse, or relative.

Additional Examples:

Car Accidents – If a person is driving recklessly or illegally, such as underage or intoxicated, and they seriously injure or kill another person as a result, the victim or their family can seek compensation for their losses and damages in civil court. Furthermore, the state may choose to press charges against the driver for criminal offenses, including operate a vehicle under the influence and causing bodily injury.

Negligent Supervision – If someone is guilty of negligent supervision, they may face both civil and criminal penalties if their actions are deemed criminal, such as in the case of child abuse, child negligence, manslaughter, nursing home abuse, and more.

Sexual Harassment at Work – If a person is being sexually harassed at work, they may be able to pursue a claim if the situation was ignored or not properly addressed by management. Furthermore, the wrongful party could face criminal penalties if the sexual harassment was criminal in nature, such as rape, sexual misconduct, voyeurism, and more.

Medical Malpractice – If a doctor or clinic negligently causes injury or death to a patient, they could be sued in civil court by the victim or their family, as well as, be charged criminally if their offense was intentional, egregious, or falls under manslaughter.

The circumstances among each case of personal injury victims vary greatly, especially when it comes to penalizing an at-fault party criminally. Always discuss your questions and concerns with a seasoned Indiana personal injury lawyer you can trust. They will be able to provide the best advice on which course of action you and your family should take after suffering the consequences of a serious injury.

Indiana Personal Injury Attorneys

Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700, and located in Indianapolis, Indiana, if you or a loved one was recently hurt in a serious accident in Indiana. Our personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations to sit down and assess your case. If we feel that you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, we begin working on your case immediately, without charging a dime. If we do not prevail for you, you will not owe our law firm any payment. We are the strong voice and immediate action you need for your personal injury lawsuit.

Fractured Hip Injuries and Elderly Slip and Fall Accidents

Posted on June 28, 2019 by admin

Slip and fall accidents can range from minor to fatal, depending on the circumstances. Some of the most common slip and fall victims are elderly individuals, who tend to suffer higher levels of pain and suffering from the resulting injuries, including fractured hips and pelvises. Continue reading to learn more about fractured hip injuries in elderly victims, and what you should do as a loved one who is helping a senior citizen recover from a recent slip and fall accident that occurred through no fault of their own.

Indianapolis Hip Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Fractured Hip Slip and Fall Statistics

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), nearly 9 million slip and fall emergency room visits take place each year in the United States. Of these, the scope of injuries range from scrapes and bruises, to orthopedic injuries, brain injuries, spinal injuries, and more. Because of the potential severity of injuries that result from slip and fall accidents, it is common for victims to require extensive medical treatment and prolonged recovery.

Therefore, if the accident occurred as a result of another’s negligence, whether a company, manufacturer, a business or an individual person, it is vital to discuss your case with a seasoned Indianapolis personal injury attorney who specializes in slip and fall accidents. The insurance company for the company, manufacturer, business or an individual person are immediately investigating the incident in an attempt to try to suggest the person falling was at fault and usually are not obtaining or retaining evidence which would be favorable to the person who fell. You may be entitled to certain compensation to cover hospital bills, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.

Elderly Slip and Fall Accidents

When slip and fall accidents happen to the elderly, one of the most common and severe injuries that result are fractured hips. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 258,000 adults over the age of 65 are admitted to the emergency room each year for such injuries. The CDC goes on to report that slip and fall accidents are the number one cause of fractured hips among individuals of this age group.

For elderly persons over the age of 85, a fractured hip resulting from a slip and fall accident is exponentially higher, and can mean severe injuries and prolonged rehabilitation. Common recovery programs for elderly fractured hip patients include surgery, extended hospital stays, prolonged physical therapy, additional rehabilitation facility stays, and even temporary or permanent nursing home care.

In fact, it is reported that nearly 1/3 of all hip fracture victims who lived on their own before their accident are never able to return home, and instead, must live in assisted living. Sadly, because certain recovery complications are more common at an older age, such as surgery complications, infection, and lowered immune systems, it is reported that virtually 20% of hip fracture victims over 65 lose their life within a year of their injury.

What to Do For Your Elderly Loved One

If your elderly loved one recently suffered a fractured hip or other serious injury as a result of a slip and fall accident, talk to an Indianapolis slip and fall lawyer to learn more about your rights to compensation. If the accident happened due to someone else’s negligence, you likely have a strong case. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and the best strategies for obtaining compensation for your damages and losses. See our blog, “What to Bring to a Personal Injury Consultation” to get started.

Indianapolis Slip and Fall Attorneys

Call the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed hip injury attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent injured persons throughout the State of Indiana. Seasoned lawyers, Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek, are motivated to help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve after experiencing a slip and fall accident in Indiana. Call 317-881-2700 to get started today.

FAQS Regarding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Posted on March 9, 2016 by admin

Nursing Home Neglect Indianapolis Indiana

Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers 317-881-2700

Nursing homes are private institutions that provide shelter, food, and care for the sick and elderly. Since nursing homes do not actually provide complex medical treatment, they are not considered hospitals. However, many institutions could be considered as a medical care facility for certain purposes, depending on the statutes that govern their operation.

There are four different types of nursing home facilities that offer separate “levels” of care for residents. From the lowest level of nursing care to the highest, these include adult boarding homes, residential care facilities, intermediate care facilities, and skilled nursing care facilities. Depending on how a nursing home is classified, different standards will apply. For example, state and federal governments regulate skilled and intermediate nursing care facilities since they are generally participants in Medicaid and Medicare programs. All nursing care facilities are mandated to build and implement programs, written policies, and procedures forbidding maltreatment and abuse to its residents.

Overcome the Fear of Placing a Loved One in Nursing Care

If you are currently considering a nursing care facility for your sick or aged loved one, you may be afraid to commit out of fear that they may be mistreated, exploited, or ignored. For this reason, it is important to educate yourself in order to feel safer about placing your loved one in a nursing home. Also, be sure to research several facilities for a better chance at finding the institution that can properly meet and exceed their medical care or nursing needs.

You are also likely to have many questions regarding your concerns and more, and you are not alone. Below you will find a few of the most frequently asked questions regarding nursing home abuse and neglect. Use this information to protect your loved one against mistreatment and more, and ensure a loving and enriched retirement for those you love so much.

What Behaviors are Considered Neglect in a Nursing Home?

When a nursing care facility fails to provide sufficient services that are essential to the health and safety of their residents, whether intentional or not, they are guilty of neglect. These services include food, shelter, safety, supervision, clothing, medical care, and more.

If a Resident Complains or Accuses a Nursing Home of Mistreatment or Neglect, What Will Happen Next?

Every state has a system in place for reporting allegations of nursing care abuse, exploitation, or neglect. This system involves an investigation that consists of interviews with the alleged victim, their family, and the staff. If maltreatment is suspected, Adult Protective Services will enter the scene and provide their assistance. It is important for the victim and family to retain the services of a licensed personal injury attorney before the investigation begins. This will ensure just compensation for any losses and damages caused by the mistreatment or neglect.

What are the Rights of Nursing Home Residents?

The law, both federal and state depending, provides nursing home residents several rights. These rights include, but are not limited to, being free of verbal, mental, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. They also have the right to not be subjected to purposes. Although a resident can be retrained by doctor’s orders if they pose a threat to themselves and others, unnecessary physical or chemical restraint intended for disciplinary purposes is illegal. Nursing home residents also have a right to a safe and comfortable environment at all times, proper medical care, and sufficient food, clothing, hygienic cleaning, and more. Talk to a nursing home neglect lawyer for details about resident rights’.

Can a Resident Still Sue a Nursing Home for Maltreatment if They Have No Contract With Them?

If a nursing home resident does not have an official contract with the facility, and they are subjected to maltreatment or neglect, they still have the legal right to pursue a lawsuit and injury claim against the facility. There are numerous legal theories that allow nursing home neglect victims, or survivors of victims, to sue the home even without a contract.

Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers

Personal Injury Attorneys 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for information about nursing home neglect and abuse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek have decades of trial and litigation experience representing victims of nursing home abuse. They offer free initial consultations to hear your story and determine your eligibility for filing a claim, and never collect attorney fees unless they win your settlement. Call us at 317-881-2700 to schedule an appointment with a seasoned nursing home abuse lawyer in Indianapolis, IN today.

What is Negligent Supervision?

Posted on December 1, 2015 by admin

Indianapolis Accident Lawyers 317-881-2700

There are three primary cases of negligent supervision. They are cases that generally involve children, elderly, or employees. Although three separate circumstances exist, all cases of negligent supervision share the same principles. They all must prove that the negligent person was in fact responsible for monitoring the individual, whether child, employee, or senior citizen.

And all cases must prove that the negligent person failed to sensibly and dutifully supervise the individual. Also, all cases must prove that the negligent person’s failure to properly monitor the individual was a direct cause of that individual’s serious injury and damages. Last, all cases must prove that the accident or injury to the individual was foreseeable had proper supervision been used. Here are some examples of such cases:

Negligent Supervision of Employees Occurs If…

• An employer is responsible for monitoring an employee that works from a satellite office or at home, and that employee is conducting company-related scams or personal scams on company time or while using company property.
• An employer chooses to ignore acts of violence or threats in the workplace, or dismisses complaints from co-workers about such behavior.
• An employer allows a convicted child sex offender to be alone with minors.
• An employer fails to provide and ensure proper training for jobs that require using dangerous weapons, chemicals, tools, or machinery. Also if they fail to properly supervise the use of such objects.
• An employer allows or ignores sexual advances or harassment of another employee.
• An employer allows an employee to drive or operate machinery while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Negligent Supervision of Elderly Occurs If…

• A nursing home ignores financial and physical abuse by staff members, visitors, or guests.
• A senior citizen with dementia wanders off the property.
• A senior citizen that is at-risk of falling, falls and injures themselves due to improper monitoring.
• A senior citizen chokes as a result of unsuitably-sized food.
• A senior citizen suffers bed sores and other injuries as a result of poor or infrequent hygienic care.

Negligent Supervision of Children Occurs If…

• Parents allow teenagers to drink alcohol or use drugs at unsupervised parties.
• A child accesses matches and starts a fire.
• A child finds a gun and shoots themselves or another person.
• A child or minor is neglected while in foster care.
• A daycare fails to prevent a child that is known for aggression from harming another child.
• A daycare fails to retain appropriate staff numbers for effective child supervision.
• A parent allows an unlicensed minor to drive a vehicle.
• Babysitters, nannies, caregivers, or guardians fail to protect children from traffic, animals, ledges, pools, and other obvious hazards.

If you believe yourself or a loved one was a recent victim of a personal injury resulting from negligent supervision, contact a licensed and experienced accident attorney to discuss your legal options and your right to compensation. You or your loved ones may be able to collect remuneration for your damages.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Personal Injury Attorneys Indianapolis 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for information about filing a personal injury claim in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are happy to answer your questions about a recent accident or negligent case. If you believe you or your loved one has been a recent victim of negligent supervision, nursing home abuse, or other form of personal injury, contact our licensed accident attorneys right away to learn your legal options. Call 317-881-2700 and schedule a free initial consultation with an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer, today.

Signs that Your Loved One is Suffering from Nursing Home Neglect

Posted on August 26, 2014 by admin

Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

There are thousands of nursing and assisted living homes located all across the county. It has proven to be an industry that is high in demand, and continues to grow in numbers each year. Assisted living centers and nursing homes are widely advantageous for the elder populations, and can alleviate mounds of pressure from relatives and loved ones. With the growing numbers of homes and centers, it is only obvious that the numbers of elders living in these homes continue to increase as well.

We only want the best for our elderly family members and loved ones; so when we suspect negligence or abuse within these centers, devastation is only expected. Following these suspicions should be a comprehensive investigation to ensure that your loved one is being properly cared for. Learn the common signs and indications that generally point to nursing home neglect and elder abuse. If you find that abuse or neglect has occurred, it is time to consult an elder abuse lawyer to file a lawsuit against the home or organization.

Elder Abuse – Signs and Indications

There are several forms of abuse that can occur within a nursing home, or while in the care of an assisted living professional. At the same time, there are also several forms of negligence that can occur as well. Not treating health problems, failure to provide sanitary living conditions, withholding food and water, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, stealing money, and much more are all examples of common nursing home abuse or neglect. Instead of deciphering the difference between the two, it is better to simple decide if abuse or negligence is taking place at all. Sometimes the elderly cannot communicate with us regarding their care.

In other cases, the elderly is completely unable to communicate concerns or their experiences in a home. This is one of the major reasons why nursing home neglect can happen. Other times, the elderly is too afraid to speak up; either from fear or punishment, embarrassment, verbal threats, or simply to not “bother” their loved ones with their problems. This is why it is so important to see these signs for them, and take appropriate action to make it stop. Here are some of the most common signs of nursing home neglect and elder abuse:

• Caretaker Denies Visitors
• Elderly Refuses Visitors
• Bed Sores
• Unexplained or Repetitive Bruising or Sores
• Sudden Change in Behavior
• Sadness or Depression
• Appearing Lachrymose or Weepy
• Seeming Scared or Timid
• Quiet or Expressionless
• Diminished Hygiene
• Weight Loss
• Genital Pain or Bleeding
• STD’s
• Torn or Blood-Stained Under Garments
• Difficulty Sitting or Walking
• Sudden Change in Bank Account or Banking
• Unpaid Bills
• Forged Signatures on Financial Transactions
• Sudden Changes in Will
• And More

If you suspect that your elderly loved one is experiencing nursing home neglect or abuse of any kind, be sure to take abrupt and responsible actions. Contact the police and an Indianapolis Elder Abuse Attorney to better solidify your case and protect your loved one from further abuse.

Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a licensed elder abuse lawyer about a possible nursing home neglect lawsuit in Indianapolis, Indiana and its nearby counties. Attorneys Daniel Craven, Ralph Hoover, and Keith Blazek are extensively well-versed and experienced in elder abuse law. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and determine if you are entitled to remuneration for your family’s damages. Also, we never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you! Call 317-881-2700 and learn more about filing a nursing home
neglect lawsuit in Indianapolis, IN today.

Talking About Nursing Home Neglect Lawsuits

Posted on May 6, 2014 by admin

Nursing Home Neglect 317-881-2700

Our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents are special to us. Daughters, sons, nieces, nephews, and additional relatives alike want the absolute best for their elders; especially when searching for a retirement center or senior living home. There are plenty of horror stories surrounding nursing homes and senior retirement complexes, making the process more difficult. Finding a reputable senior retreat for your elder loved ones is important in order to ensure the best care and amenities.

No one wants to discover that their elder loved one has been mistreated or abused at the nursing home they have chosen for them. Unfortunately, there are many cases of nursing home neglect and elder abuse and senior retirement centers and care facilities. When cases like this happen, it is important to outsource professional legal counsel in order to learn about your rights and the rights of your parent or grandparent.

Because senior citizens can sometimes be highly medicated, ill, or disassociated, it can be unlikely for them to communicate or reveal the abuse and mistreatment they’ve been experiencing. Often times, nursing home neglect goes unnoticed. This is unfair and justice is certainly required for any elder that has experienced mistreatment, abuse, or neglect within a professional senior care center. Speak with a professional elder law attorney, or personal injury lawyer, for accurate legal advice and consultation.

When it comes to nursing home neglect, there are various identifications to look for. For example, if your elder loved one begins to withdraw, become irritable, depressed, or angry, they may be experiencing stress within their retirement home. Here is a list of various examples surrounding nursing home neglect lawsuits, negligence, indications of abuse, and more:

Indications of Mistreatment:

• Overall Poor Care
• Extreme Weight Loss
• Malnutrition
• Severe Dehydration
• Bed Sores
• Orthopedic Fractures
• Missing Valuables
• Unexplained Injuries and/or Bruises
• Missing or Unaccounted Money
• And More

Types of Nursing Home Neglect:

• Physical Abuse
• Hygienic Neglect
• Financial Abuse
• Unqualified Employees
• Under-Staffed Shifts
• Inappropriate Use of Restraints
• Sexual Assault
• Mental, Verbal, or Emotional Abuse
• Inattentive Staff
• Medication Malpractice
• Prolonged Isolation or Abandonment
• Failure to Remove from Wheelchairs
• Failure to Utilize Bed Rails
• And More

Indianapolis Elderly Abuse Lawyers

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Call the law office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 for additional information surrounding nursing home neglect lawsuits in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly dedicated and accomplished personal injury attorneys that focus on negligent senior retirement center cases and elder law. If you or your loved one is an elder that has experienced abuse and a retirement care center or nursing home, contact one of our highly accomplished and respected Indianapolis elder abuse attorneys right away.

We offer free initial consultations to assess whether or not you are entitled to compensation for your elder abuse and nursing home neglect lawsuit. We never collect fees unless we prevail for you, and we have extensive experience in litigation or out-of-court negotiations. Contact Us at 317-881-2700 and speak with a live legal representative about filing a nursing home neglect lawsuit in Indianapolis, IN today.