The CDC says that there are around 16,000 nursing homes in the US, a number that is sure to continue to increase. In the United States, there are approximately 1.3 million people in certified nursing homes. Florida alone has over 72,000 of its elderly citizens in nursing homes.
We trust the people who work in these facilities with our family members’ care. When they violate that trust, we have to know what to do.
Have you heard the term elder abuse?
It is not something we discuss often enough, but it happens at an alarming rate. The CDC defines elder abuse as “an intentional act, or failure to act, by a caregiver or another person in a relationship involving an expectation of trust that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult.”
The elderly are often unable to defend themselves from abuse. Sometimes, they are not even aware it is happening.
Physical abuse involves the staff using physical force to harm a resident. This includes hitting, slapping, choking, pushing, biting, scratching, shaking, or any other force that causes harm. Sexual abuse is a vile form of physical abuse and occurs when nursing home staff engage in forced sexual acts with those in their care.
Psychological and emotional abuse can include things like intimidation, threats, name-calling, humiliation, and isolation. The purpose of this kind of abuse is to cause a resident fear, distress, and mental anguish, and is just as damaging as physical abuse.
Neglect happens when staff fails to protect a resident or fails to meet their basic needs – food, shelter, clothing, medication, etc.
More and more, we are seeing cases of financial abuse by nursing home staff. They have access to sensitive information and often steal residents’ identities or money.
What To Do Now
We know you are furious, and so are we. The team at the Dante Law Firm believes that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity. When you need a nursing home abuse attorney in Sunny Isles Beach, we will be by your side.
Our team will make sure you and your loved one are compensated for the abuse they suffered. This should not happen to anyone, and the only way to make it stop is to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. You can contact us by clicking here or calling 305-949-2526 for a free consultation.
Medical advances have greatly increased life expectancies in the Unites States. That is a wonderful thing. It also means that we are dealing with a large amount of elderly people, a number that is projected to grow significantly over the next few decades.
(954) 365-0000
(954) 365-0000