What Is the Difference Between Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?

Law Blog

Every day, people in dire and desperate situations reach out to personal injury professionals. When it comes to trying to take care of an elderly loved one, you may feel even more desperate. Nursing home neglect is a very common situation.

Are you looking for answers about nursing home neglect? How does it differ from nursing home abuse? Read on to see what you need to know about the laws.

First, Know that Abuse Is Different

While abuse and neglect are both serious concerns of nursing home lawyers, it is important to know that they are different. Abuse often involves action or activity, while neglect is often passive. This is not always the case, and this is why it is important to have a lawyer on your side who knows the difference.

So What Is Neglect?

Neglect comes in many forms. In the case of nursing home neglect, the term often refers to a lack of care or action to take care of residents. For example, a staff member at a nursing home may fail to provide the required care expected of them. In other cases, neglect comes in the form of failing to provide adequate shelter or clothing. In other scenarios, it involves not providing medical care or taking care of the resident's hygiene.

What Signs of Nursing Home Neglect Should You Look For?

So, how do you know if you have a good nursing home neglect case? While a lawyer will help you make the final decision, there are some signs you can look for. Common signs of neglect include malnourishment, dehydration, bedsores, unpaid bills, and medical issues that develop due to lack of care. These are not the only signs, and they can often lead to signs of abuse. Abuse and neglect often work hand in hand.

So, Who Should Be Held Responsible?

When you take your case to court, you will need to demonstrate who is responsible for the neglect your loved one faced. The person responsible for neglect could include staff members, nursing home facility owners, doctors, and even family members. Your lawyer will help pinpoint anybody responsible for the injuries.

Consult With a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer

A nursing home neglect lawyer can help you through the important steps associated with filing a lawsuit and getting the evidence you need to take care of your loved one. Meet with a lawyer today to learn more about your legal options.

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22 March 2021

Choosing To Fight

Although I am far from perfect, I have focused on abiding by the local laws for the vast majority of my life. Unfortunately, about five years ago, I realized that I was being accused of a crime that I didn't commit. I thought about letting the trial run its course, but then I realized that fighting would be important to ensure my future. I teamed up with a great lawyer, and things became much easier overnight. My legal counsel told me what to do and what to avoid, and he was able to prove the facts in a court of law. This blog is all about choosing to fight charges.