NURSING HOME ABUSE
The
number of people in Georgia over age 75 is growing
at nearly twice the rate of the younger population,
and the 85+ age group is growing at nearly three
times the rate of those under 65. In spite of the
fact that federal and state law requires nursing
homes to take steps to maintain the “highest
practicable physical, mental and psychosocial
wellbeing of each resident,” thousands of nursing
home residents are the victims of negligent and/or
abuse by nursing homes and their employees.
Due to overcrowded conditions and the shortage of
properly trained personnel, all nursing home
residents are in danger of being mistreated and/or
neglected. Despite what you may think, paying for
the most expensive or prestigious facility available
in your area does not guarantee that someone you
love will not be a victim.
In fact, a recent study conducted by the Georgia
Department of Human Resources found almost half of
the nursing home residents surveyed said that they
had been victims of abuses, including hitting,
slapping or rough handling by their caregivers.
Another study by the Georgia Department of Human
Resources found that the vast majority of complaints
made against nursing home facilities were not
sufficiently investigated and few changes were
brought against care facilities despite the fact
that many of the allegations were shocking.
Further studies of the Georgia nursing home industry
show that neglect and abuse can take many different
forms. Some may be obvious while others are much
more difficult to detect.
Signs of abuse in Nursing Home Resident:
Any one or more of the following may indicate
nursing home neglect of a loved one or friend:
Bedsores of any type;
Skin
rash;
An
odor of urine and/or feces;
Lack
of attention to resident’s personal hygiene;
Falls
resulting from inadequate precautions or assistance;
Skin
tears;
Bruises, contusions, or lesions;
Bone
fractures;
Sudden
weight loss;
Unexplained dehydration;
Disorientation;
Depression or isolation;
Unexplained mood changes;
Fear
or anxiety;
Unexplained refusal or inability to communicate; and
Presence of unjustified
chemical or physical restraints.
Nursing home residents are
guaranteed certain rights under federal and state
law. Since government inspectors are understaffed
and overburdened, they often miss instances of
abuse. Therefore, it is up to friends, family
members and patient rights advocates to ensure that
residents are being protected.
Our purpose is to assist you in ensuring that your
loved one is getting the care they deserve. If you
have any reason to suspect abuse or neglect of any
type call us immediately.
If you have any questions or concerns, please
contact us. You may send us an email, or call us at
(770) 382-8900. We will be happy to inform you of
your rights with a free consultation.
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