Orlando Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

case worker elder abuse at nursing home

Putting your loved one in a nursing home is a difficult decision many of us make with a heavy heart. For most of us, we understand that our loved one will more likely be in better care, especially when our relative requires care around-the-clock. A person can spend months researching the right facility only to be let down when evidence of abuse arises.

Sadly, nursing home abuse is one of the most under-reported crimes in the US. Many facilities are understaffed or have hired unqualified or underqualified employees who aren’t suitable for the work. Since residents live in the facility 24/7, many fear retaliation if they report abuse. Those with dementia or other cognitive function issues may not remember what happened, making it difficult to record a statement. Finding evidence of abuse often proves to be a monumental task, one that could be made easier with help from a reliable personal injury attorney.

The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 is a federal law establishing protections for nursing home residents against abuse, with a list of individual resident rights. Florida also has laws in place to protect nursing home residents. If you suspect that your loved one may be a victim, you have the right to seek justice with aid from an Orlando nursing home abuse lawyer.

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse takes many forms. There can be physical or emotional abuse, financial abuse, and even sexual abuse and negligence. Some signs of nursing home abuse include but are not limited to:

  • Mood or appetite changes
  • Bedsores or other signs of neglect
  • Insomnia, anxiety and/or depression without a reason
  • Sudden reluctance to speak with family or friends, or even staff members
  • Lurking staffer when family members are present
  • Damaged clothing or property
  • Unexplained injuries such as bruises, broken bones, and lacerations

If your loved one has exhibited these symptoms, contact one of our elder abuse attorneys today.

nursing home resident

Financial Elder Abuse

MarketWatch reports roughly 17% of elderly people have reported fraud, and the average elder abuse victim loses about $120,000.  Banks are increasingly using high-tech methods to help prevent financial abuse of seniors. Despite the stepped-up protection, elder financial abuse can still happen.

If you suspect financial abuse, visit frequently and look for signs that things “just aren’t right.” Is there a distant relative suddenly paying attention? A staffer that won’t leave you alone with your loved one? Is your loved one reluctant to talk about money or show you their accounts? These are some indicators of possible financial abuse, as well as:

  • Newly updated wills
  • New activity in previously unused bank accounts
  • Sudden NSF charges
  • New co-signers on bank accounts (and frequent withdrawals)
  • New loans, contracts or mortgages
  • Updates on powers of attorney for bank account access

There are numerous resources available to help protect vulnerable elderly individuals from financial abuse. Direct deposit and automatic bill-pay can keep financial documents out of their room where someone else can find it and use it.

Protect Your Loved Ones with an Orlando Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

Nursing home residents need you to speak up for them when they can’t. Give your loved ones the voice they don’t have when they need help or protection.

The Umansky Law Firm is committed to protecting Florida’s vulnerable elderly against abusive workers and relatives. If you suspect abuse, call us or use our online contact form to schedule your appointment with one of our elder law experts.

Get In Touch With Us Today

    Orlando Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
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    34.230.66.177