California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer – Every year thousands of elderly people suffer maltreatment or neglect in care homes or assisted living facilities. This is often the result of businesses cutting back on numbers of staff, quality of staff, training and wages in an effort to increase their profit margin. If you suspect that an elderly relative is receiving inadequate care, a California nursing home abuse lawyer can offer practical help.
Under California law, nursing homes must provide safe and healthful living conditions, personal assistance, food service and incidental medical attention. California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer. The 1990 Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act was enacted to help prevent mistreatment of care home residents. It allows legal action to be taken against homes suspected of abusing or neglecting the elderly. Plaintiffs who win a lawsuit can claim compensation for punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.
The general surroundings in a facility can give visitors a good indication of the level of care. Living areas should be visibly clean and tidy. California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer. Health and safety rules should be followed to reduce risks to the elderly. All residents should have their personal hygiene needs attended to as required.
A resident’s behavior and physical condition can indicate a cause for concern. Any unexplained injuries should be investigated. If an old person appears to be unusually fearful, withdrawn, depressed or agitated, this may be due to ill-treatment. The frequent appearance of minor bruises or scratches could indicate forceful grabbing or arm-twisting by staff. Rapid weight loss could be due to malnourishment.
The elderly, especially those with dementia or other impairments, often find it difficult to communicate. It is important that family members ensure that they are being well cared for and raise any issues with staff. In the event that managers are unresponsive or the situation does not improve, they should contact a California nursing home abuse lawyer for advice on the best way to proceed.