Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect

It is not uncommon to hear about cases involving the neglect of elderly residents in nursing homes. However, there has recently been a rise in abuse and neglect cases occurring in Tennessee Assisted Living Facilities. People that live in assisted living housing usually do not need as much care and can take care of themselves for the most part. They may only need help remembering medication or to make sure they are less likely to fall and suffer a serious injury. Even though they may not need as much care, abuse and neglect can still occur. If you think that someone you care about has suffered abuse or neglect while in assisted living, you should speak to a Tennessee assisted living abuse lawyer as soon as possible. They will review your claim and help you to get the compensation you may be entitled to.

The kinds of abuse and neglect that an elderly person may suffer while in assisted living may be very similar to the kind that may occur in a nursing home. Some common forms of abuse and neglect to be aware of may be:

• Admitting or Keeping a Resident that should actually be in a Nursing Home.
• Being physically abused
• Having food or drinks withheld
• The use of restraints in an extreme manner
• Any form of sexual abuse or neglect
• Being dehydrated or not getting enough nutrition if the resident is dependent on the staff
• Being under or over medicated
• Loss of money or loss of control over money

If your elderly loved one has sudden changes in mood or behavior, a drastic change in their financial status or if they have unexplainable bruises, cuts, scrapes, or sores then they may have suffered some form of abuse or neglect and you should make sure they get the proper medical care and treatment they may need for any injuries. The abuse or neglect should also be reported.

Reporting nursing home abuse and assisted living neglect are usually very similar. It is important to first inform the facility about the suspected abuse or neglect so that situation can be addressed and corrected. If necessary, you can also report the abuse or neglect to Tennessee’s long-term care ombudsman or the Tennessee Health Department. They will properly investigate the facility and can put you in touch with other agencies such as adult protective services.

After you have sought medical help for your elderly loved one and reported the case of abuse or neglect to the state and to the facility, some legal issues may remain. These issues may include making sure those people responsible are held accountable and that you or your loved one obtain any compensation that may be owed for pain and suffering, medical bills, the expense of finding another facility or any other damages that may have been sustained. This process is often confusing and complicated if you try to handle it alone. This is why it is recommended that you contact an experienced and caring Tennessee assisted living abuse and neglect attorney with the Higgins Firm right away. We understand how difficult this may be for you and your family and we will answer any questions you may have. If we determine that you are eligible for compensation, we will fight for you to get the compensation you and your loved ones deserve.

Contact us online or call us at 800.705.2121 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.