Nursing Home Abuse | What Are the Signs?

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Nursing home abuse cases are never easy. Here at Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP, our legal team is committed solely to cases involving elder abuse. We recognize the difficulties associated with these cases, as we have successfully managed them for years. Nursing home claims are far more complicated than traditional personal injury or medical malpractice claims, which is why it is critical that anyone dealing with an issue of elder abuse speak with a knowledgeable California elder abuse lawyer right away.

What are ways to detect nursing home abuse in California?

There are several ways that nursing home elder neglect and abuse can happen in California. However, keep in mind that nursing home neglect or abuse can be difficult to detect, which is why it is important to identify potential warning signs if your loved ones are in a nursing home. The most typical neglect or abuse indications in a nursing home include the following:

  • Complaints of hunger or thirst
  • Bedsores
  • Infections
  • Contaminated drinking water or spoiled food
  • Residents being left to wander the premises, or leave the premises altogether
  • Drastic changes in disposition
  • Unexplained cuts or bruises
  • Signs of fear when certain staff members enter the room
  • Possessions mysteriously going missing
  • Unexplained falls

Note that if one of these signs or symptoms is present, it does not always mean that there is abuse or neglect present. If you discover that you are witnessing an incident of nursing home elder abuse with a close friend or relative, it is in your best interest to reach out to our firm today to discuss the facts of your case and your legal options. All you have to do is give us a call.

What steps should I take to report abuse?

If you have suspicions that your loved one is a victim of nursing home elder abuse, you will need to report this abuse right away. In the state of California, nursing home elder abuse can be reported to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman CRISISline at 1-800-231-4024, or your local police department. If you believe that your loved one is in direct danger, it is imperative that you reach out to the nursing home management and call 911. After your loved one is safe, it is important that you then reach out to our firm to speak with a skilled California nursing home elder abuse attorney at Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP. Our firm is on your side and will help you and your loved ones through this obstacle.

Contact our experienced California firm

Here at Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP, we have significant experience representing clients through a wide array of elder abuse matters, and we are prepared to assist you as well. Contact us today.