The age group of Americans above the age of 65 is growing, and the need for health care for senior citizens is growing with it. Most aging people need assistance with taking care of their needs at some point, and assisted-living facilities are one of the easiest ways to make sure seniors stay safe.
It is rare that nursing homes abuse or neglect their residents, but it can happen and families and friends have to be vigilant to protect their loved ones. Patients and their representatives have the right to sue to improve care or receive compensation to rectify an unjust injury or death.
A woman in Hillsborough County has sued a nursing home in Pinellas County on behalf of her husband who allegedly suffered physical and emotional abuse due to the negligence of the home’s staff. The plaintiff is seeking a trial by jury and damages exceeding $15,000, plus the costs of the trial and any damages the court deem appropriate.
The suit claims that the plaintiff’s husband was denied courteous and dignified care as guaranteed by Florida state law regarding nursing homes. The patient was allegedly denied appropriate care and treatment for ailments related to his aging, and he was subjected to mental and physical abuse.
Some nursing homes include a provision in residential contracts that reject suits made by patients and their representatives, but this was ruled in federal court as an illegal denial of personal rights. An attorney may help nursing home residents and their families explore and affirm their rights if they have been abused or neglected by nursing home staff.
Source: Florida Record, “Wife blames Pinellas County nursing home for husband’s suffering,” Jenie Mallari-Torres, Jan. 05, 2018
