Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is a decision based on trust. There is hope that they will get the best care there. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse shatters that trust and brings immense pain and worry. We know how devastating it can be to discover your loved one has been abused. Here at Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley, we’ll fight hard to get things back on track. We want to restore your loved one’s dignity and bring some peace of mind to your family during this difficult time.

What Qualifies as Nursing Home Abuse?

You expect the nursing home to treat your loved ones with respect, dignity, and compassion. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Nursing home abuse is a tragic reality for too many families. Understanding what qualifies as abuse is the first step in protecting your loved ones.

Nursing home abuse can take many forms, each as harmful as the next. Here are the primary types of abuse that can occur:

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves the use of force that causes pain, injury, or impairment. This can include hitting, slapping, pushing, or improperly restraining a resident. 

Physical abuse can leave visible marks, but sometimes the signs are more subtle. Look for:

  • Unexplained injuries or those with inconsistent explanations
  • Any unusual marks, such as those from restraints
  • Sudden or significant weight loss without a medical reason
  • Unkempt appearance, dirty clothes, or untreated bedsores

Emotional Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse includes actions that cause mental anguish, fear, or distress. This can be through verbal assaults, threats, humiliation, or isolation. Victims may show signs of depression, anxiety, withdrawal, or sudden changes in behavior.

Emotional abuse might not leave physical marks but can be just as damaging. Watch for:

  • An unwillingness to participate in previously enjoyed activities or to interact
  • Unexpected shifts in mood that include despair or anxiety
  • Being terrified or worried around particular employees or in specific scenarios
  • Sleeping problems, including nightmares and insomnia
  • Refusal or changes in eating habits

Neglect

Neglect happens when caregivers fail to provide the necessary care, leading to harm or distress. This includes not providing adequate food, water, medical care, or assistance with personal hygiene. 

Signs of neglect include:

  • Malnutrition
  • Dehydration
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Bedsores
  • Unattended medical needs

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse occurs when someone uses a resident’s money, property, or assets illegally or improperly. This can include stealing money or things. It can also involve forging signatures or coercing residents into signing financial documents. 

Warning signs of financial abuse include:

  • Unexplained bank withdrawals
  • Missing belongings
  • Changes in financial documents

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact with a resident. This can range from inappropriate touching to rape. 

Victims might show signs like:

  • Bruising around sensitive areas
  • Sexually transmitted infections
  • Fear around certain staff members

Steps to Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

You know your loved one best, and sometimes a gut feeling tells you something’s wrong. Here’s what you can do if you suspect abuse at their nursing home:

  • Listen Up:If your loved one mentions something or you see something off, take it seriously. Even small changes can be a sign of a bigger issue.
  • Keep a Record:Take pictures of any injuries, and write down the date, time, and details of what happened. If anyone else saw something, try to get their account of what happened too.
  • Speak Up:Let the nursing home know your concerns. It’s their job to investigate them. If the situation seems serious or urgent, call the police or Adult Protective Services right away to protect your loved one.
  • Get Medical Help:  A doctor can document any injuries or neglect, which can be important evidence later.
  • Know Your Options:  Our nursing home abuse lawyer can help you navigate your legal rights and take action against those responsible. We can fight to get your loved one the compensation they deserve.

How We Help You Fight for Justice

No one deserves to be abused, especially someone you love in a nursing home. It’s a terrible situation, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here at Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley, our nursing home abuse lawyers are here to fight for your loved one:

  • We’re With You Every Step: We understand the emotional toll this takes. We’ll be by your side as your advocate, working tirelessly to get your loved one the justice they deserve.
  • Building a Strong Case: We’ll handle the complexities of the legal battle. We’ll investigate thoroughly, gather evidence, and build a strong case to hold those responsible accountable.
  • Making It Easier for You: The legal process can be confusing. We’ll take care of all the legal details, freeing you up to focus on what matters most – supporting your loved one. We’ll keep you informed and guide you every step of the way.
  • Getting You What’s Owed: You shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden of abuse. Our nursing home abuse lawyers will fight to get your loved one the maximum compensation they deserve, including medical bills and any other damages. 

Taking Action for a Better Future

Your loved one deserves to feel safe and cared for. By taking action against nursing home abuse, you’re not just fighting for your loved one’s justice; you’re also helping to prevent it from happening to others. If you suspect abuse, don’t hesitate. Call Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley todayfor a consultation. Our nursing home abuse lawyers will fight to make sure your loved one gets the respect and dignity they deserve, and we’ll help you protect them.

If your loved one has suffered nursing home abuse or neglect, contact Lowell Stanley. From our office in Norfolk, our nursing home abuse lawyers can help clients throughout Virginia, including Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and surrounding areas.