It can be a difficult and emotional journey when parents age and need to transition into an assisted living community. Even with a facility that looks trustworthy, there is always the chance that negligence or abuse may occur.
As trusted family members, it's important to understand the signs of potential mistreatment. Attorney Steve Watrel has over 30 years of experience representing aggrieved families in situations of assisted living abuse or neglect. If your loved one has experienced mistreatment in one of these facilities, contact our team at (904) 523-8610 for a free legal consultation.
Understanding the Signs
As we entrust our elderly loved ones to the care of an assisted living facility, it can be difficult to imagine that abuse and neglect may be taking place. However, the unfortunate reality is that elder abuse is a prevalent issue in such facilities.
Here are common signs that may indicate abuse:
- Unexplained injuries, such as pressure sores, bruises, orÂ
- Sudden weight loss or malnutrition
- Changes in behavior
- Poor hygiene
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Inadequate medical care, such as poor infection control or medication errors.Â
If you suspect abuse is happening in an assisted living facility, it’s important to take action immediately and contact an experienced attorney.Â
What Causes Assisted Living Facility Neglect?
Common causes of abuse and neglect in an assisted living facility can stem from various factors that contribute to the vulnerability of residents. One significant cause is understaffing or insufficient training of caregivers, which can lead to inadequate supervision and care.Â
Inadequate policies and procedures, as well as a lack of effective oversight and accountability mechanisms, can create an environment where abusive behavior can go unchecked. Additionally, factors such as poor management, lack of resources, and a focus on profit over resident well-being can further contribute to abuse and neglect within the facility. It is crucial to address these systemic issues and prioritize resident safety to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all assisted living facility residents.
Hiring Steve Watrel to Represent Your Case
Hiring an attorney for assisted living facility abuse involves a series of steps aimed at seeking justice for the affected individual and holding the responsible parties accountable. The first step is to consult with an attorney specializing in elder abuse cases. During the initial consultation, we will gather relevant information about the abuse, including any documentation or evidence available.Â
We will assess the strength of the case, discuss legal options, and outline the potential outcomes. When we determine that it is a viable case, we will proceed to gather additional evidence, interview witnesses, and review relevant records. We may also consult with medical experts or other professionals to evaluate the extent of the harm caused. Once the necessary evidence has been collected, we will file a lawsuit against the assisted living facility and any other parties involved.Â
Throughout the legal process, we are dedicated to advocating for your loved one’s rights, negotiatiating with the opposing party, and, if necessary, represent you in in court. Our goal is to secure for you the maximum amount of compensation for damages, such as medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Get Justice for Your Loved One
Assisted living facilities have a duty to protect and care for their residents. If the facility fails to do this, it must be held accountable. If your loved one has experienced any type of ALF injury, they may be entitled to financial compensation for medical bills, mental health treatment, physical therapy, moving costs, and justice for pain and suffering.Â
Steve Watrel is Jacksonville’s premiere elderly abuse and neglect attorney. For over 30 years, he has been fighting for justice for sufferers of nursing home abuse and providing victims and family members compassionate care. You may be entitled to financial compensation if you or a loved one has suffered from abuse or neglect in an assisted living facility. Contact Steve Watrel, P.A. at (904) 523-8610 for a free consultation.
