Just thoughts of an elderly person being abused or neglected is disturbing, however; as unfortunate as it is, elderly nursing home residents are subjected to neglect and abuse every day. There are statistics available that put the number of adults over 60 that are neglected at over half a million but many in authority believes this number is only a small percentage of the real total.
Neglect and abuse are similar:
Although nursing home neglect and nursing home abuse are similar, there are notable differences. Abuse implies intent to harm an elderly resident while neglect is the provision of sub-standard care that results in harm. Anyone that is of the opinion that their elderly loved one is being abused or neglected should consult with nursing home neglect lawyers in Chicago.
Types of nursing home neglect:
There are numerous ways in which an elderly nursing home resident can suffer neglect, but there are four types which are most common:
? Emotional or social: Elderly people need human ties, when the individual is repeatedly ignored or left unattended for long periods of time, this is neglect.
? Personal hygiene: Nursing home residents require assistance with their personal hygiene; bathing, hair care, tooth care, etc. When this is not provided it is neglect.
? Basic needs: A nursing home must provide adequate food and water as well as an inherently safe and clean environment. When they don’t, this is neglect.
? Medical needs: The nursing home must provide treatment for such concerns as bed sores, open wounds, infections, etc. If they fail, it is neglect.
What can be done?
If you are an elderly victim or a responsible family member and you suspect abuse or neglect you should immediately contact nursing home neglect lawyers in Chicago.
A nursing home is responsible for providing the care their elderly residents need, if they do not they can be held liable for any harm done. If you are looking for experienced nursing home neglect lawyers in Chicago you are invited to contact the Law Office of Scott D. DeSalvo, LLC.
