Giving A Voice To Vulnerable Elders
Assisted living facilities have weighty responsibilities when it comes to creating a safe and healthy environment for vulnerable residents. They must comply with strict legal standards that outline the level of care that residents should receive.
These facilities differ from nursing homes in that their residents often don’t require such a high level of care. Nonetheless, they still may require assistance with basic daily needs, such as getting dressed, taking baths, preparing meals and using the bathroom. Many also need intensive supervision because of memory impairments or cognitive disorders. Assisted living facilities must ensure that all residents are properly cared for at all times. Bedsores are a serious problem in assisted living facilities. If the sores become severe enough — Stage III or IV — the facility is required by law to transfer the patient to a hospital. Failure to do so amounts to negligence.
The administrators of these facilities also have a duty to determine whether they can realistically meet the needs of residents. Sadly, instead of doing the right thing and referring residents to a hospital or better-equipped care facility, many will venture in over their heads. They end up taking on patients whose needs require more intensive care than they can provide — just to fill a bed and bill the family for it.
At Ford, Dean & Rotundo, P.A., we are committed to providing our clients with quality legal counsel when they need it most. Contact our office today to speak to our Florida assisted living facility abuse lawyers.
Common Reasons For Assisted Living Facility Abuse
Assisted living facility abuse often stems from systemic issues within the facility itself. Recognizing these common reasons can help families better advocate for their loved ones.
- Understaffing: Many facilities lack adequate personnel. This results in neglect, improper care and an inability to monitor residents effectively, leaving them vulnerable to harm.
- Undertraining: When staff members are not properly trained, they may not know how to handle the unique needs of elderly residents. This can lead to improper handling of medical conditions, unintentional harm or even abusive behavior due to frustration.
- Lack of supervision: Without proper supervision, employees may engage in harmful practices or fail to report instances of abuse by others.
Addressing these issues can help reduce the risk of abuse in assisted living facilities, helping create a safer environment for residents.
Signs Of Assisted Living Center Abuse
Identifying the signs of abuse in an assisted living center is essential for protecting residents.
- Marks on the resident’s body: Bruises, cuts or unexplained injuries may indicate physical abuse or neglect.
- Bedsores: Pressure ulcers result from prolonged immobility and inadequate care.
- Unpleasant odors or lack of cleaning: Foul smells or dirty environments suggest poor hygiene and neglect.
- Frequent illness: Repeated illnesses may stem from unsanitary conditions, neglect or untreated medical needs.
- Mood swings: Sudden changes in a resident’s behavior, such as depression or anxiety, may signal psychological abuse, fear or a response to mistreatment.
By understanding these warning signs, loved ones can take swift action to address concerns and protect residents from further harm.
Types Of Assisted Living Abuse
Assisted living abuse can take many forms, each with devastating effects on residents’ well-being.
- Physical abuse: This includes hitting, pushing or using excessive force on residents, causing physical harm or pain.
- Sexual abuse: Any nonconsensual sexual contact or harassment.
- Unnecessary medical procedures: Performing medical treatments or surgeries without a resident’s need or consent.
- Psychological abuse: Verbal insults, threats or isolation.
- Neglect: Failure to provide basic care such as food, water or medication.
- Financial exploitation: Misusing or stealing a resident’s funds, property or assets.
Understanding these abuse types empowers families to take action and safeguard their loved ones from harm in assisted living facilities.
We Are Committed To Seeking Justice
Has your loved one suffered from abuse, mistreatment or neglect in a Florida assisted living facility? At Ford, Dean & Rotundo, P.A., our lawyers have established a nationwide reputation for pursuing justice through nursing home abuse and neglect lawsuits. Located in the Miami area, we handle these cases across Florida.
Our attorneys share a fierce dedication to holding wrongdoers accountable. They believe that by obtaining maximum compensation for our clients, they help them get closure while also forcing these facilities to take responsibility for their abusive and neglectful actions.
It Won’t Cost You Anything To Learn More
With more than 40 years of experience in this complex area of law, our lawyers know what it takes to get justice in these cases. They are proud of their record of success. Not only have they helped many victims obtain full compensation for their injuries, but they’ve also brought closure to their suffering and restored dignity to their lives.
If your loved one has suffered from abuse or neglect as a resident in an assisted living facility, arrange a free consultation by calling 305-670-2000. You won’t have to pay anything out of pocket when you hire us to stand beside you.