Nursing Home Abuse FAQs

Answers from Our Norfolk Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys

What is nursing home abuse?

Nursing home abuse is a negligent or deliberate act on the part of nursing home caregivers to physically or psychologically harm nursing home residents.

What forms does nursing home abuse take?

Sadly, there are many ways in which a nursing home resident may suffer abuse or neglect. Failure to give appropriate food, drinks or medications tops the list. Not changing wet or soiled bedding, which leads to pressure sores, is another issue. Elders may suffer sexual abuse, humiliating remarks from caregivers, and general negligence, leaving them feeling vulnerable and isolated.

How do I know if my loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse?

Nursing home abuse may become apparent in a wide variety of ways. Be alert to any signs suggesting your loved one is not being cared for appropriately including:

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Unusual anxiety
• Unexplained bruises, broken bones, pressure marks or abrasions
• Lack of medical care, dirty environment, unchanged bedding or pressure sores
• Tense or argumentative verbal or non-verbal communication between the resident and the caregiver

What should I do if I suspect a loved one is suffering nursing home abuse?

Obviously, instances of nursing home abuse are extremely distressing for the victim and for family members, and you must take action if you suspect your loved one is suffering:

• Call the police or 911 immediately.
• Contact the nursing home administration.
• Contact an experienced Norfolk nursing home abuse lawyer to protect the rights of your loved one.

What legal options are available to elders and their families?

An elder abuse lawyer in Norfolk can explain your rights. No amount of compensation can ever pay for the physical and emotional turmoil caused by such abuse, but it is important to pursue the case to prevent the abuse from continuing or happening to someone else.

If you have been the victim of nursing home abuse in Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Roanoke, or Virginia Beach, Virginia, please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC online or by phone at (855) 880-8163 to schedule a private consultation at no-cost. “Tell Them You Mean Business.”