The debate has been raging across most states in the country recently: how can nursing home abuse and neglect be prevented? With an aging population poised to place a greater burden on long term care facilities than ever before, some believe the time to act is now so that policies are in place as soon as possible. In the interim, abuse in nursing homes continues to occur and continues to be drastically underrepresented based on the findings of numerous national studies. This abuse threatens the safety and security of some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens and leads to the death of residents in Illinois every year.
But what are family members to do? When a loved one needs around-the-clock care, there are few options but to try and find the best facility to help that person with his or her unique needs. Loved ones should be able to trust the owners and employees of nursing homes to provide the care and assistance required by their family members but too often learn that neglect has taken place. Victims of this abuse and their loved ones cannot erase the damage or wipe the slate clean once an injury occurs but they may be able to obtain relief for their suffering. Speaking to a personal injury lawyer may help you understand your rights and your options if you suspect abuse has harmed a nursing home resident you love.
A former employee at an Evansville, Indiana nursing home recently pleaded guilty to battery after a hidden camera reportedly caught the woman pushing and shoving a resident at the home. Official reports indicate that the resident’s husband suspected abuse and decided to place a hidden camera in his wife’s room as a result. Reportedly, the battery was captured on film and led to criminal charges against the woman.
As part of the plea deal, the former employee was sentenced to two years of probation. It is unclear whether the nursing home resident was injured or whether she sustained lasting damage as a result of the alleged assault.
Nursing homes in Illinois tend to put their own interests first when an incident occurs, meaning that a potential victim’s family may not get the full picture of what happened. Without experience in these incidents, it can be difficult to determine the full facts of any case.
The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. believe in the rights of those who have been hurt and we believe in fighting for the victims of Illinois nursing home abuse. If you have been injured or if your loved one was harmed, we want to fight for you. Call us today toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and let us help you by providing you with a free case consultation. There is no obligation on your part for speaking with us and we have a licensed lawyer standing by 24 hours a day to take your call.
If you suspect abuse, do not hesitate. Call Abels & Annes, P.C. today.
Prior Blog Entry:
Hidden Camera Reportedly Catches Nursing Home Owner Sexually Assaulting Dementia Patient, Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Blog, published November 21, 2014.
Resource:
Former Nursing Home Caregiver Sentenced for Battery, Tristatehomepage.com, published December 3, 2014.