When people move into assisted living centers, it’s usually because they simply need help and supervision in getting through their daily routines. Therefore, people in this position are often extremely vulnerable to abuse and to neglect on the part of the facilities that are being paid for their ongoing care. If you suspect that a loved one is being mistreated in any way by the assisted living center in which he or she lives, you need to seek the help of experienced Dallas nursing home abuse attorneys as soon as possible. Below you’ll find a brief overview of this troubling issue.
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect
When people see a loved one move into an assisted living center, they can expect some time for adjustment to the new situation. However, there are certain warning signs that can arise that should prompt immediate action by those who notice any of them. Below you’ll find a few examples of these warning signs.
- Unexplained injuries – People move into assisted living centers in order to minimize the risk of suffering injuries as they go about their daily lives. Therefore, if a resident suddenly suffers injuries that come with no explanation, it could be a sign that abuse or neglect is occurring.
- Bedsores – If the resident of an assisted living center is basically immobile and bedridden, that person still needs to be watched carefully and turned regularly to avoid bedsores. If a resident suddenly develops this painful and long-lasting condition, it should be at least a potential sign that the resident is suffering from substandard care.
- Unexplained financial transactions – If a family member or some other loved one is charged with helping oversee a resident’s finances, that person should act immediately if he or she notices financial transactions that simply do not make sense, particularly if they are cash transactions.
Potential Steps for Holding Responsible Parties Accountable
Fortunately, there are legal options available for those who are suffering from abuse or neglect while living in an assisted living center. The best way to go about exploring these legal options is to do so with the help of experienced Dallas nursing home abuse lawyers, but these legal options are all designed to bring about an end to the mistreatment that’s occurring.
For instance, Dallas nursing home abuse lawyers can contact the state licensing authority and request an investigation of the assisted living center in question. If the abuse or neglect is serious enough to warrant a criminal charge, the police can also be contacted. Finally, residents who are being neglected or abused can also file a lawsuit in order to recover damages for the losses that have been incurred.
If you or someone you love is suffering in this manner, you need to take immediate steps to restore the resident’s safety and dignity. Seek the help of Dallas nursing home abuse lawyers who have been standing up for those who need this type of help for many years. Contact the Law Offices of Greg Fitzgerald today to schedule a free initial consultation.
