Articles Tagged with elder abuse

The nursing home environment is often the most engaging and safest place for individuals who cannot live independently because of age-related medical conditions or dementia. Fortunately, there are many options available depending on the resident’s needs. The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) reports that there are 691 nursing homes licensed to operate in the state, representing almost 84,500 beds. Facilities range from group homes and assisted living to memory care units and skilled nursing services. 

Most nursing homes provide quality care as expected, but there are serious consequences for those that fail in their legal duty. Residents can suffer serious harm, which is why Florida law protects them by providing legal recourse. You may qualify to recover damages, either on behalf of a loved one or for injuries to you. There can be challenges with compensation, so count on a Miami nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer to ensure you receive a fair amount. Some background information is useful for understanding damages.

Basics of Monetary Damages

When you trust a Miami nursing home to provide for the health and safety of residents, it is horrifying to find out that your loved one developed bedsores because of misconduct. Statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shed some light on the severity of the problem: 

  • Anywhere from 2% to 28% of residents in assisted living facilities have developed bedsores, also termed pressure ulcers.
  • Individuals living in a nursing home for less than 12 months were more likely to develop these wounds than those with longer stays.

It is horrifying to learn that the assisted living facility that you carefully researched, paid, and trusted to care for an elderly loved one has shirked its legal obligations. Nursing homes have a duty to provide proper care, but statistics indicate that many fall short. Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that around one in 10 individuals aged 60 years and older has experienced some form of elder abuse, though the true figures are likely much higher because of reporting issues. Experts estimate that just one in 24 instances of misconduct are communicated to authorities. The nature of elder care in assisted living centers typically puts family members in the position to raise concerns about the resident, who may suffer from dementia, mental decline, or related medical conditions. It is critical to contact a Miami nursing home abuse lawyer right away if you spot the following signs of nursing home abuse that you cannot ignore. 

Physical Abuse

Some types of bodily harm are visible, so you are right to be disturbed if you notice bruises, abrasions, or lacerations. Still, you must remain vigilant regarding the less obvious signs of physical abuse in assisted living facilities, such as:

Florida Justice Association
The National Center for Victims of Crime
outh Florida Legal Guide
Contact Information