Nursing Home Neglect is NOT Okay.
Get Legal Representation from the Nursing Home Neglect Attorneys in New York at Shalom Law
It is an egregious violation of law and human decency for an elderly or disabled person who needs assistance to move or care for themselves is left unattended for long periods of time in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Being left to lay in a bed without attention or care for hours on end can result in future immobility of joints, loss of bone density, and decubitus ulcers or bedsores. In most cases, these problems are entirely preventable, leaving nursing homes in great legal trouble.
Both New York Public Health laws and federal laws provide powerful rights and protections for nursing home and assisting living patients who are neglected, abused, or defiled in any other way. However, to invoke these statutory rights, you and your loved ones will need the protection of a professional Personal Injury lawyer like those at Shalom Law.
We specialize in representing victims of nursing home neglect and their families. Our experienced nursing home neglect attorneys in New York, are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. Serving clients in Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and parts of Upstate New York, Shalom Law is here to support you every step of the way.
Facts and Statistics About Nursing Home Neglect
According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), approximately one in ten Americans aged 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse, including neglect. Nursing home neglect can lead to serious health issues, emotional distress, and even death. Understanding these statistics highlights the importance of legal representation for victims of nursing home neglect.
- High Incidence Rates: Elder abuse, including neglect, is a significant problem in the United States, affecting millions of older adults each year.
- Serious Consequences: Neglect can lead to severe health issues such as malnutrition, dehydration, infections, and bedsores.
- Underreported Cases: Many cases of nursing home neglect go unreported due to fear, shame, or the victim’s inability to communicate.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
- Poor Personal Hygiene: Neglect can result in nursing homeresidents not receiving proper assistance with bathing, grooming, and other personal hygiene needs.
- Unsanitary Living Conditions: Neglected nursing homes may have dirty and unsafe living conditions, including soiled bedding, poor sanitation, and lack of proper cleaning.
- Malnutrition and Dehydration: Residents may suffer from malnutrition and dehydration if they are not provided with adequate food and water.
- Untreated Medical Conditions: Neglected residents may not receive proper medical care, leading to untreated infections, bedsores, and other health issues.
- Emotional Distress: Neglect can cause emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, and withdrawal from social interactions.
Common Causes of Nursing Home Neglect
- Understaffing
Many nursing homes in New York City and Long Island are understaffed, which can often lead to inadequate care and supervision for residents. - Lack of Training
Staff members may lack proper training in caring for elderly residents, leading to neglect and inadequate care. - Poor Management
Ineffective management and oversight can contribute to neglect and poor living conditions in nursing homes. - Negligence
Neglect can occur when staff members fail to provide necessary care and attention to residents, either intentionally or unintentionally.
Types of Nursing Home Neglect
- Physical Neglect
Failure to provide adequate food, water, shelter, and medical care. - Emotional Neglect
Failure to provide emotional support, social interaction, and mental stimulation. - Medical Neglect
Failure to provide necessary medical treatment and medication. - Hygiene Neglect
Failure to assist residents with personal hygiene needs such as bathing, grooming, and toileting. - Environmental Neglect
Failure to maintain a safe and clean living environment.
Common Injuries that can occur from Nursing Home Neglect
Nursing home neglect can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Bedsores: Pressure ulcers that develop from prolonged immobility and inadequate care.
- Malnutrition and Dehydration: Severe health issues resulting from inadequate food and water intake.
- Infections: Untreated infections can lead to severe health complications and even death.
- Falls: Lack of supervision and assistance can lead to falls and resulting injuries such as fractures and head trauma.
- Emotional Distress: Neglect can cause significant emotional and psychological distress, including depression and anxiety.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect
Ensure the Safety of Your Loved One
- Remove your loved one from the neglectful environment if it is safe and feasible to do so.
Document the Neglect
- Take Photos and/or Videos: Try to get footage of any visible signs of neglect, such as bedsores, malnutrition, and unsanitary living conditions.
- Keep Thorough Records: Maintain detailed records of any incidents, medical records, and communications with nursing home staff.
Report the Neglect
- File a Complaint: Report the suspected neglect to the nursing home administration and appropriate state authorities, such as the Department of Health.
- Contact an Attorney: Reach out to Shalom Law for a free consultation to discuss your case with our experienced nursing home neglect attorneys. We will guide you through the legal process, answer any questions you may have, and help you pursue the compensation you and your elder loved one deserve.
How Shalom Law Can Help if You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect
At Shalom Law, our dedicated nursing home neglect attorneys in New York, have extensive experience handling cases involving elder abuse and neglect. We are committed to ensuring your loved one receives the justice and care they deserve. Here’s how we can help:
Thorough Investigation
- Detailed Examination: Our experts conduct a comprehensive investigation of the nursing home conditions, staff qualifications, and care practices. This includes reviewing medical records, staff logs, and state inspection reports to uncover any instances of neglect.
- Gathering Evidence: Our team collects and preserves all relevant evidence, including photographs, videps, medical documentation, and witness statements. We also work with medical experts to assess the extent of injuries and neglect.
Legal Representation
- Filing Complaints and Claims: We assist in filing complaints with state regulatory agencies and pursue legal claims against the negligent nursing home. Our goal is to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the maximum compensation for your loved one.
- Negotiating Settlements: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive to settle your case out of court. We will work tirelessly to reach a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Court Representation
- Trial Preparation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys are experienced litigators who will present a compelling case on behalf of you and your loved one.
- Advocacy: In court, we advocate vigorously for your loved one’s rights, using the evidence we have gathered to support your claims and seek justice.
Personalized Legal Support
- Compassionate Guidance: We understand the emotional toll nursing home neglect can take on families. We offer compassionate, personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique situation and needs. We take the time to listen to every single concern and answer every legal question you may have.
- Regular Communication: We keep you informed about the progress of your case and answer any questions you may have throughout the process. Clear communication helps you stay informed and confident in the legal process.
By choosing Shalom Law, you are choosing a firm committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.Visit our Personal Injury Law page for more information on how we can assist you.
Shalom Law Will Fight For You
There is no excuse for the assisted care facilities, trusted with the care of fragile loved ones, to allow neglect of any kind to go on. The skilled attorneys at Shalom Law are dedicated to representing and defending victims of elder abuse and nursing home neglect across New York City and Long Island. If a loved one has been neglected, abused, or injured as a result of careless nursing homes and assisted living facilities, we are here to help you.
If you are in need of an experienced and accomplished New York Personal Injury lawyer to ensure your rights are well protected in negotiations or litigation, contact Shalom Law at (718) 971-9474 today.
Nursing Home Neglect FAQ
What are common signs of nursing home/assisted living center neglect?
Common signs of neglect include poor personal hygiene, unsanitary living conditions, malnutrition, dehydration, untreated medical conditions, and emotional distress. Look for any noticeable changes in your loved one’s physical or emotional state.
How can I report nursing home neglect?
You can report nursing home neglect to the nursing home administration, local law enforcement, and state authorities such as the Department of Health. It is also advisable to contact an attorney to discuss your legal options and ensure your loved one’s safety.
What kind of compensation can I receive for nursing home neglect?
Compensation for nursing home neglect can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and costs associated with relocating to a safer environment. In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Can I sue a nursing home/assisted living center for neglect?
Yes. You can sue a nursing home or assisted living center for neglect if you can prove that the facility’s negligence caused harm to your loved one. An experienced nursing home neglect attorney can help you gather the proper evidence and build a strong case.
What should I do if my loved one is showing signs of neglect?
If you suspect your loved one is being neglected, document any signs of neglect, report the issue to the nursing home administration and state authorities, and seek immediate medical attention if necessary. Contact an attorney to discuss your legal options and protect your loved one’s rights.
How long do I have to file a nursing home neglect claim in New York?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a nursing home neglect claim is generally three years from the date of the neglect or injury. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met in a timely manner.
What are the legal obligations of nursing homes regarding resident care?
Nursing homes are legally obligated to provide a safe and clean environment, adequate medical care, proper nutrition and hydration, and respect for the dignity and rights of residents. Failure to meet these obligations can result in legal action for neglect or abuse.
How can the nursing home neglect attorneys at Shalom Law help me?
The nursing home neglect attorneys at Shalom Law can help you by investigating the neglect, gathering evidence, handling insurance claims, negotiating settlements, and representing you in court if necessary. We’ll provide personalized legal guidance and support to help you secure the compensation your loved ones deserve.
