Naples Assisted Living Neglect Attorney
Neglect is an all too common issue in American nursing homes. Neglect is defined as the failure to meet a person’s basic needs, including food, water, shelter, medical care, clothing, and hygiene.
In an assisted living environment, staff members have an obligation to meet these basic needs. If a patient suffers from injuries or a worsened medical condition due to neglect, a nursing home can be sued and fined.
Don’t let your beloved family member suffer in this type of environment. They deserve the best care possible. See how a Naples assisted living neglect attorney from Kohn Law can assist you with your case.
Types of Neglect
An assisted living resident can face several types of neglect:
- Personal hygiene neglect. Poor hygiene is common in these facilities, but it can have negative effects. Bathing and changing clothes and bedding should be done on a regular basis.
- Social/emotional neglect. This is a tricky one, as staff members don’t usually do this on purpose or think about the repercussions. This type of neglect involves isolating residents, not providing them with mobility aids, and not moving them often.
- Medical neglect. This is when a resident is not getting the medical care they need. This may mean not getting medication in a timely manner or not getting proper treatment for medical conditions. This could also mean causing bedsores.
Signs of Neglect
Has your loved one been neglected? Look for these signs:
- Bedsores
- Bruises
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Insomnia
- New medical conditions
- Significant personality changes
- Personal hygiene issues
- Unexplained injuries
Neglect is a serious issue that can result in death. While most cases are not that severe, they can lead to issues such as fatigue, dental issues, weight loss, anemia, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts.
Liability for Assisted Living Facility Neglect
Both staff members and nursing homes can be held liable for neglect. Staff members need to be accommodating to residents’ needs. They need to ensure they are doing what needs to be done because one mistake or omission can be deadly.
Assisted living facilities can also be liable because it is their job to hire adequate staff to care for patients. These staff members must be qualified and properly trained to care for residents. The facilities must also be kept clean and maintained so they can stay functional. If not, the liable parties can face civil or criminal penalties.
Contact Kohn Law Today
Neglect is common among the elderly, but it shouldn’t be. Seniors should receive the best care possible, but some go for days without food or medication. They may not take showers for months. It’s a frustrating situation for nursing home patients and their loved ones.
If your loved one has been neglected in an assisted living facility, you need to hold the facility liable for its actions. Kohn Law can help you with your nursing home neglect case and effectively handle your concerns. Schedule a free consultation with one of our Naples assisted living neglect attorneys today by calling (813) 428-8504 or filling out the online form.
