What to Do If a Loved One is Injured Due to Nursing Home Neglect

OPELOUSAS, LA, UNITED STATES, March 7, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Nursing homes are meant to be places of care, safety, and comfort for elderly individuals, yet incidents of neglect and abuse continue to rise across the nation. For families who entrust their loved ones to nursing homes, discovering that they have been injured due to neglect can be a deeply distressing and painful experience. Understanding what to do next is crucial for ensuring that the individual’s rights are protected and that accountability is pursued.

When nursing home neglect or abuse occurs, the health and well-being of the resident is at risk, often leading to serious injuries or further medical complications. Neglect can manifest in various ways, such as inadequate medical care, failure to assist with daily activities, unsanitary living conditions, or a lack of proper supervision. Injuries resulting from neglect may include falls, infections, dehydration, malnutrition, bedsores, and more. It is essential for family members to recognize the signs of neglect and take immediate steps to address the issue.

William P. Morrow, a lawyer at Morrow Law Firm in Opelousas, Louisiana, emphasizes the importance of acting quickly when dealing with nursing home neglect. “Nursing homes have a responsibility to provide adequate care to their residents. If a loved one is injured as a result of neglect, families need to take action to protect their rights and ensure the safety of their loved one. It’s important to document everything and seek legal counsel to explore available options for pursuing justice.”

Recognizing Nursing Home Neglect

The first step in addressing potential neglect is identifying the signs that something is wrong. While some signs of neglect may be subtle, others are more obvious. Common indicators include:

Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures that do not have a clear explanation
Poor hygiene or unsanitary living conditions in the facility
Weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition, which may be signs of improper care or insufficient nutrition
Frequent falls or lack of assistance with mobility, leading to injury
Bedsores or pressure ulcers, which are preventable with proper care and attention
Emotional withdrawal or anxiety, which may indicate mistreatment or fear of staff members
If any of these signs are present, it is essential to take immediate action to assess the situation and protect the loved one’s well-being.

Documenting the Incident

Documentation is one of the most important steps in pursuing a case of nursing home neglect. Family members should gather as much information as possible about the situation, including photographs of injuries, medical records, and any communication with the nursing home staff or administrators. This documentation will serve as evidence if legal action is pursued.

Additionally, it is important to report the neglect to the appropriate authorities. In Louisiana, families can contact the Louisiana Department of Health, which oversees nursing home facilities, to report concerns and initiate an investigation into the incident. Local law enforcement may also be involved in cases of abuse or severe neglect.

Seeking Legal Assistance

If a loved one has been injured due to nursing home neglect, seeking legal counsel is a critical step in ensuring accountability and securing compensation for the harm done. Lawyers with experience in nursing home neglect cases can help families navigate the complexities of the legal system, gather evidence, and file a lawsuit if necessary.

William P. Morrow, of Morrow Law Firm, discusses the importance of consulting a lawyer in cases of nursing home neglect: “Nursing home neglect cases can be complex, and it’s important to understand the legal avenues available for seeking justice. A lawyer can help families understand their options, whether that includes pursuing a claim against the nursing home for negligence or seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering.”

In Louisiana, residents of nursing homes have legal rights that must be protected, and nursing home operators are required to meet specific standards of care. If these standards are violated, legal action can hold the responsible parties accountable. In many cases, this includes securing financial compensation for medical costs, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the neglect.

Filing a Lawsuit for Nursing Home Neglect

A lawsuit for nursing home neglect may be filed if there is clear evidence that the facility failed to meet its duty of care. In a legal claim, the burden of proof rests with the plaintiff, meaning that the injured party must demonstrate that the facility's negligence caused harm. A lawyer can assist in gathering evidence, such as medical records, witness testimony, and expert opinions, to build a strong case.

There are typically two types of legal claims that may be pursued in cases of nursing home neglect:

Personal Injury Claim: This type of claim seeks compensation for the physical injuries suffered due to neglect. The damages can include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering.

Wrongful Death Claim: If the neglect led to the death of a loved one, a wrongful death claim may be filed to seek justice and compensation for the family. This can cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

Both types of claims require thorough investigation and proper documentation to succeed.

Taking Preventative Measures

While seeking justice for an injured loved one is essential, it is equally important to take preventative measures to ensure that other residents are not subjected to similar neglect. Families should remain vigilant and continue to monitor the care provided by nursing homes. Regular visits, open communication with staff, and careful review of care plans are important ways to ensure that the facility is meeting its obligations.

Conclusion

Nursing home neglect can have serious consequences for vulnerable residents, and families need to take swift action if they suspect their loved one has been harmed. Identifying the signs of neglect, documenting incidents, reporting concerns, and seeking legal counsel are critical steps in addressing this issue.

William P. Morrow, of Morrow Law Firm, advises families facing nursing home neglect cases to seek legal help as soon as possible: “A timely and well-documented response to nursing home neglect can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case. A lawyer can help families understand their rights and ensure their loved one’s safety is prioritized moving forward.”

Nursing homes have a duty to provide care in a safe and healthy environment. When that duty is breached, it is important for families to take appropriate action to protect their loved ones and pursue justice.

Morgan Thomas
Rhino Digital, LLC
+1 504-875-5036
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