If your loved one is in a nursing home or a similar facility, you assume that they are being well cared for by a compassionate staff. If this is not the case and your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse, that must be reported. You can tell the state about the harm that this facility has caused, and then a Bexar County, Texas personal injury lawyer can help you explore your legal options.
What Are Some Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, from neglect to financial abuse. You’ll want to look out for changes to your loved one and their demeanor, including:
- Unexplained injuries
- Bed sores
- Dehydration and hunger
- Fear or nervousness around staff
- Mood swings
- Missing money or belongings
It’s a good idea to look out for any signs of trouble and do your best to determine the issue. Sometimes your relative might just be in a bad mood one day, but extended bouts of depression or anger can be indicators of something else going on. The same applies to falls and injuries. An older person falling once is not that odd, but multiple injuries with dubious explanations are suspect.
How Can I Report Nursing Home Abuse to the State?
If you believe that your loved one is in serious, imminent danger, you can call 9-1-1. Otherwise, most reports go to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Then number to call is (800) 458-9858. You cannot make an anonymous report, but your information is protected by law.
You should be specific about the type of abuse occurring and who you believe is involved. The more evidence that you have, the easier it can be to make a compelling complaint.
How Can I Document Nursing Home Abuse?
You should do everything that you can to document nursing home abuse and support your complaint. You could use:
- Photos of the injuries or bedsores
- Testimony from witnesses of the abuse or neglect
- Bank statements or other documents that show financial abuse
- The diary of your loved one
- Medications given to your loved one
- Notes about your relative’s physical and emotional condition
These can help you with a complaint, but this evidence can also be useful if you sue for damages. You may be entitled to compensation that would help make up for the pain and suffering your relative has experienced.
Can a Facility Retaliate Against My Loved One After a Report?
No. If you make a report about nursing home abuse, it is illegal for the facility to retaliate against your loved one no matter what the end results of the investigation are. Your are protecting your relative by making this report, not putting them at more risk.
Schedule a Free Consultation
When you are ready to learn more about your legal options, contact Sahadi Legal Group. Schedule a free initial consultation and tell us more about your potential nursing home abuse case.
