Health Care Negligence

As our elderly loved ones age, many of them will require assistance with even the most basic functions of daily living such as feeding, bathing, dressing, cleaning, or maintaining their financial matters. For many adults, taking care of elderly parents, family members or friends is overwhelming, both emotionally and physically.

It can be difficult to be responsible for the round-the-clock care of an elderly individual. Therefore, many caregivers turn to managed care facilities or home healthcare providers for assistance, the latter of which allow a loved one to retain a greater degree of independence in familiar surroundings.

While assisted facilities and home healthcare services provide much-needed support to aging or sick individuals and their families, they must also be diligent about supervising the workers they employ. Some healthcare services fail to follow the regulations set by Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), the governing body for the industry.

In fact, many assisted living or homecare workers are overworked and may lack sufficient education for their role as caregivers. In addition, some of these individuals aren’t ethical or simply aren’t well-suited for the job. As a result, mistakes can be made and elderly loved ones suffer harm, or they are mistreated or neglected.

Without proper attention, even a minor cut on an elderly person can become a serious problem. In addition to discomfort, an infection can occur and require additional treatment. A bedsore, a broken bone, a forgotten medication, or dehydration are other potential examples that require the diligent attention of a healthcare provider. As a concerned loved one, it is important to keep an eye on the performance of the caregiver.

Signs of mistreatment, abuse, or neglect of an elderly patient include but are not limited to:

• Bedsores
• Bruises, fractures or broken bones
• Cuts or burns
• Dehydration, malnourishment
• A slip and fall due to improper supervision
• Signs of sexual assault
• Emotional withdrawal or depression
• Medication errors or omissions
• Missing money or property
• Sudden withdrawals from financial accounts or lavish spending

There is no excuse for negligence or abuse. However, patients who have suffered mistreatment by healthcare workers may be eligible to receive compensation. An experienced elder abuse attorney can help you navigate this difficult time and become an important advocate for your family. The Silver Law Group and our network of elder abuse resources may be able to help you and your loved one get the justice you deserve.

Contact our team today and tell us your story.