There is nothing more infuriating than a growing suspicion that your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know what happens behind closed doors. How are you going to take action if you lack proof?
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Fortunately, there are laws and protections in place to keep abuse from running rampant. Adult Protective Services is the government agency overseeing these protective measures. When individuals or facilities abuse older adults or adults with disabilities, this agency gets involved.
Investigators employed by Adult Protective Services are often first responders to reports of elder abuse. They corroborate stories, speak to witnesses and determine whether abuse or neglect has occurred. This happens in a multitude of settings, including nursing homes.
However, before Adult Protective Services can get involved, you must contact your local division. You may contact them directly, or through your local health and safety enforcement officials.
THE PROCESS
When you contact Adult Protective Services to report abuse or neglect in a nursing home, a trained professional will evaluate the report. That official will determine whether the report meets the criteria for opening an investigation. If so, the investigator will meet with the victim and assess the situation firsthand.
Next, the investigator will decide whether the situation warrants further action. If so, Adult Protective Services may call law enforcement or any additional officials as needed. They will help assess the problem, formulate a plan, and arrange for any necessary services the victim may need.
If you choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party responsible for your loved one’s pain and suffering, an investigator from Adult Protective Services may be able to provide expert testimony. For this reason, you should consider making a report even if you plan to use the court system for justice.
WARNING SIGNS OF ABUSE
The easiest way to make a strong report to Adult Protective Services is by including any potential red flags. Some common warning signs of nursing home abuse and neglect are:
- Unexplained injuries, including broken bones and sprains
- Bruising, scarring, or welts
- Signs of restraint on the victim’s wrists
- Broken glasses
- Refusal of the care facility to leave you alone with your loved one
- Unusual behavior, such as mumbling or rocking
- Controlling or threatening behavior from nurses, doctors, or aids
If you notice any of these warning signs, act quickly. File a report with the authorities and contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NURSING HOME ABUSE ATTORNEY
Do you have reason to believe your loved one is suffering from nursing home neglect or abuse? The time has come to take action. Contact the experienced Phoenix nursing home abuse lawyers at Miller Kory Rowe LLP by calling (602) 648-4045.