New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys
Fighting against assisted living abuse and neglect
As our loved ones age, many need help with their daily activities, such as getting dressed and preparing meals. These loved ones may not require constant medical care, but they do need some assistance from day to day. Assisted living facilities are designed with this need in mind. Though residents of assisted living facilities are more independent than those who require nursing home care, they may still be vulnerable to abuse or neglect. At Leonard Legal Group, our New Jersey injury attorneys have pursued abuse or neglect claims against assisted living facilities for numerous clients, obtaining favorable results for many.
Types of abuse in an assisted living facility
There are several different types of abuse that may occur in an assisted living facility. These include:
- Physical abuse, such as hitting, shoving, slapping, or other types of harmful physical contact
- Sexual abuse, such as unwanted touching
- Psychological abuse, including bullying, mocking, or degrading the resident
- Financial abuse, such as stealing money or other types of property from the resident
- Neglect, which may include the failure to provide meals and keep a resident’s quarters clean
In extreme cases of abuse and neglect, several types of abuse may occur to a resident. Those who live in large assisted living facilities, with a large staff-to-patient ratio, are especially susceptible to abuse or neglect.
What are the signs of assisted living abuse?
It is simply not possible for many relatives to stop by and check on the resident multiple times per day. Therefore, what are the signs of abuse that family members should look out for? Signs of abuse may include:
- Weight loss
- Mood changes, including the onset of depression or withdrawal
- An overall deterioration of health
- Bed sores
- Poor hygiene and general uncleanliness
- Acting fearful or timid
- The frequent use of physical restraints (or chemical restraints, such as medication)
If these signs are observed, family members should immediately take action. Family members should meet with the staff of the assisted living facility to see how the facility explains these troubling symptoms. If necessary, a complaint may be filed with the appropriate state agency. However, many family members fear that the facility may retaliate against the resident.
It is wise to consult with an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney experienced in assisted living abuse and neglect. Even if it becomes apparent that it is not necessary to file a legal action against the assisted living facility, the family members gain an understanding of their rights and the options they may have.
If you have concerns about your loved one’s assisted living environment, call our experienced New jersey injury attorneys today
At Leonard Legal Group, we understand how stressful allegations of assisted living abuse are for family members. We work diligently to ensure your loved one’s legal options are protected and that you have the tools you need to keep your loved one safe. To schedule your free consultation with our firm, call our 24-hour call center at 973-984-1414 or contact us online.