Elderly citizens, particularly those in nursing homes, are a vulnerable population that can be susceptible to neglect and abuse. This unspeakable issue is more prevalent than one might think, and it’s important to understand its various forms, signs, and symptoms. In the state of New York, as well as on the federal level, numerous laws have been established to protect seniors and nursing home residents.
Types of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse
Nursing home neglect and abuse can take many forms:
- Physical Abuse: This is when physical force results in bodily injury, pain, or impairment. Examples include hitting, pushing, slapping, or any unnecessary physical restraint.
- Emotional Abuse: This form of abuse can be either verbal or nonverbal, where actions cause emotional pain or distress. Examples include insults, threats, humiliation, or ignoring the elderly person.
- Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact of any kind falls under this category.
- Neglect: This involves the failure to fulfill caregiving obligations, leading to a lack of proper care. Examples include failure to provide food, water, clothing, medications, or assist with personal hygiene.
- Financial Exploitation: This involves unauthorized use of an elder’s funds or assets. Examples include stealing money or property, forging signatures, or coercing seniors into signing documents.
Signs and Symptoms of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse
It’s crucial to identify the signs and symptoms of nursing home neglect and abuse to intervene effectively:
- Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, fractures, or burns, are common signs.
- Emotional Abuse: Changes in behavior, withdrawal, depression, or frequent arguments with caregivers can indicate emotional abuse.
- Sexual Abuse: Unexplained STDs or genital infections, bruising around the breasts or genital area, or unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding may indicate sexual abuse.
- Neglect: Signs include malnutrition, dehydration, untreated physical problems, unsanitary living conditions, and being left dirty or unbathed.
- Financial Exploitation: Sudden changes in financial situations, unexplained withdrawals, missing items, or suspicious changes in wills or power of attorney can be signs.
New York and Federal Laws on Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse
The state of New York and the federal government have established laws to protect vulnerable seniors and nursing home residents. New York’s Elder Law, Social Services Law, and Public Health Law all have provisions to protect the elderly.
Specifically, New York’s Social Services Law 473-b establishes a hotline for reporting elder abuse, while New York’s Public Health Law 2803-c provides rights for nursing home residents, including the right to be free from abuse and neglect.
On a federal level, the Older Americans Act and the Nursing Home Reform Act provide protections for seniors, ensuring their right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Choosing a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
When dealing with nursing home neglect or abuse, choosing the right attorney is crucial. An attorney should have extensive experience with elder law and nursing home abuse cases, a deep understanding of New York and federal laws, and a compassionate approach to representing your loved one.
Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP?
Parker Waichman LLP has a long-standing reputation for their commitment to elderly clients and their families. Their experienced attorneys are deeply familiar with New York and federal laws concerning elder abuse, and they have a successful track record in holding nursing homes accountable.
The firm is known for its compassionate and aggressive representation, ensuring that each case is handled with the respect and attention it deserves. Their team of professionals will guide you through the legal process, taking the time to explain each step, and making sure that you’re informed and comfortable throughout the journey.
Their attorneys are experts in navigating the legal and medical complexities associated with nursing home neglect and abuse cases. Whether it’s physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, Parker Waichman LLP has the resources and dedication to pursue justice for your loved ones.
Parker Waichman LLP understands the financial strain such cases can pose on families, which is why they operate on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if they win the case for you.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
At Parker Waichman LLP, we are committed to protecting the rights of the elderly and ensuring they receive the care and dignity they deserve. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, do not hesitate to take action.
Our experienced attorneys are ready to provide you with a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult time and will aggressively pursue justice for your loved one.
For immediate assistance, call our toll-free number at 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529). Remember, the sooner you reach out, the sooner we can help you protect your loved one and bring those responsible to justice.
At Parker Waichman LLP, we believe in justice for all, especially for the most vulnerable among us. Trust us with your case, and let’s fight for justice together.
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