Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer in Tampa
Nursing home abuse leaves some of the most vulnerable among us victims to suffering they shouldn’t have to endure. Nursing homes are intended to provide seniors with the care they need, which makes nursing home abuse that much more egregious. Tampa has a very large elderly population, and it’s growing in response to the influx of retirees who are drawn by the warm weather and other inviting aspects of the area. If you’re concerned that your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse, don’t wait to discuss the matter with our experienced Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers at Jeeves Law Group.
Nursing Home Abuse Is More Common Than You May Realize
CDC reports that about 1 in 10 older people experience abuse, which includes exploitation and neglect, and they go on to share that this kind of abuse is woefully underreported. Further nursing home abuse can take many different forms that include all the following:
- Physical abuse from the intentional use of physical force
- Emotional abuse that causes the victim to suffer fear, distress, or anguish
- Sexual abuse, which refers to any sexual interaction that is forced or unwanted
- Financial abuse, which includes illegally or improperly using a resident’s assets for someone else’s benefit
- Neglect, which is the failure to meet the residents’ basic needs like shelter, food, water, adequate hygiene, clothing, and medical attention
- Unreasonable confinement of the resident, other than when medically required
Don’t wait to bring up your concerns with a dedicated nursing home abuse attorney.
Know the Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
In order to identify nursing home abuse and advocate for your loved one’s rights, you need to know the warning signs. One of the most important tools is trusting your gut. If you think there’s a problem, there likely is, and you shouldn’t ignore the issue.
Warning Signs of Physical Abuse
The signs of physical abuse are generally physical in nature. Prime examples include the following:
- Unexplained injuries like sores, cuts, bruises, sprains, or broken bones
- Frequent accidents
- Unexplained concerns like broken glasses or adaptive physical devices that go missing
- Medical needs that go unattended
- Lab results that indicate overmedicating or failure to medicate
Warning Signs of Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse can be more challenging to pinpoint, but it’s generally reflected by a change in the resident’s temperament. This can mean being agitated or exhibiting unusual behavior like rocking back and forth or being far more withdrawn than usual. If your aging relative doesn’t seem like themself, it’s important to pay attention.
Warning Signs of Neglect
The most common sign of neglect is simply appearing not well cared for. For example, if your loved one always seems hungry or thirsty. Another tell-tale sign is if their personal hygiene has taken a turn for the worse. Unsanitary living conditions are also a serious concern.
Seek the Guidance of Our Experienced Tampa Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys
Our compassionate Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers at Jeeves Law Group understand the impact of nursing home abuse, and we are committed to making a difference. Your loved one deserves to be treated with care, dignity, and respect, and we are squarely on your side. Learn more by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at (727) 894-2929 today.