Even when it is a necessity, few find it easy to place a loved one in a nursing home. Once someone is moved in there is an expectation that he or she will receive the care they need and be treated with respect. Sadly this does not always happen and when a resident is injured at a facility it can be hard to know what to do.
If your loved one has been hurt in a nursing home, you may decide to take legal action against the facility. A successful lawsuit could result in compensation from the nursing home.
In order to develop a case against a nursing home, you must show that there has been an injury of some sort. This injury does not have to be physical and can take multiple forms including mental anguish, pain, insomnia or impairment of the ability to enjoy a person’s life.
It is also beneficial to show that the injuries your loved one suffered resulted in monetary expense. For example, you might have medical expenses such as laboratory fees or prescription fees, or need to pay for prosthetic devices or physical therapy. Any expenses connected to the injury should be shared.
If possible it is also beneficial to provide compelling evidence of the injury. Though not always available, if, for instance, you have evidence in the form of a video that shows a nursing home staff member leaving a loved one on the floor, this could be a good way to demonstrate neglect.
Older or disabled individuals deserve the same care and respect that younger, able bodied individuals do. When they do not receive the level of care that is expected in a nursing home the facility may be held responsible. Since cases of this nature can be complex it is a good idea to work with a lawyer who understands them. Please see our website to learn more about nursing home neglect and abuse.
