Making the decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is never easy. We do it because we believe they will receive the professional care and safety they need. When that trust is betrayed by ne...
Making the decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is never easy. We do it because we believe they will receive the professional care and safety they need. When that trust is betrayed by neglect or abuse, the results are heartbreaking and unacceptable. Florida has a large elderly population, and unfortunately, nursing home abuse is a growing problem. Knowing the signs and your legal rights is crucial to protecting the vulnerable.
Signs of Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse
Abuse isn't always physical. It can be emotional, financial, or the result of sheer neglect. Common signs include unexplained bruises or fractures, bedsores (pressure ulcers), sudden weight loss, dehydration, poor hygiene, and changes in behavior like withdrawal or fear. If you notice these signs, investigate immediately.
Bedsores: A Clear Sign of Neglect
Bedsores are almost always preventable with proper care. They occur when a patient is left in one position for too long. If your loved one develops a bedsore, it is often a sign that the facility is understaffed or that staff are failing to perform basic duties like turning patients. These sores can lead to serious infections and death.
Florida's Resident Bill of Rights
Florida law guarantees nursing home residents specific rights, including the right to be treated with dignity, the right to private communication, the right to manage their own finances, and the right to be free from abuse and neglect. Violating these rights is grounds for legal action.
Reporting Abuse and Filing a Claim
If you suspect immediate danger, call 911. You should also report the abuse to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). A civil lawsuit can also be filed to recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, and to punish the facility for its negligence.
How We Can Help
Nursing homes often have large legal teams to defend against claims. You need an advocate on your side. We investigate staffing levels, review medical records, and interview witnesses to build a case against negligent facilities. Our goal is to ensure your loved one is safe and compensated for their suffering.
Contact Emas Law Group Today
Our elders deserve respect, care, and dignity. When nursing homes fail in their duty, they must be held accountable. If your loved one has suffered from neglect or abuse in a Florida facility, do not stay silent. Contact Emas Law Group. We are passionate about protecting the elderly and will fight to secure justice for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect abuse?
Ensure your loved one's immediate safety, report the abuse to the Florida Abuse Hotline (1-800-96-ABUSE), and contact an attorney.
Are bedsores always the nursing home's fault?
While some medical conditions make bedsores harder to prevent, they are usually a sign of neglect (failure to turn/reposition) and are often actionable.
Can I sue for emotional abuse?
Yes. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, and you can seek compensation for the mental anguish and suffering caused to the resident.