At our law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we provide experienced and knowledgeable legal representation for those who have been victimized by nursing home abuse. Our experienced Oak Park nursing home abuse lawyers understand the complex laws governing these types of cases and are committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation for your nursing home abuse lawsuit.
What is Considered Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse can take many forms. According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, abuse in a nursing home facility can be physical, sexual, or emotional. It may also be financial, involving the theft or misuse of a resident’s money or property, or neglect, which involves the failure to provide a resident with necessary medical care.
What Illinois Law Applies to Nursing Home Abuse?
Under state law, the Nursing Home Care Act protects residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other care venues from abuse and ensures their right to quality care. It outlines standards for nursing home operations and provides legal recourse for victims of nursing home abuse cases, which includes potential compensation for damages suffered.
Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse in Oak Park
There are numerous forms of abuse and neglect that can occur in nursing homes. Physical abuse involves intentional actions causing injury to a resident, while sexual abuse includes any non-consensual sexual contact. Emotional abuse, on the other hand, involves verbal abuse or non-verbal actions that cause emotional pain, fear, or distress. Examples include humiliation, intimidation, and threats.
Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Recognizing abuse signs early is crucial to prevent further harm to the nursing home resident.
Unexplained Injuries: Look for bruises, cuts, or burns that can’t be adequately explained.
Sudden Behavior Changes: Unusual or sudden changes in behavior might indicate emotional or physical abuse.
Neglected Personal Hygiene: Poor grooming or dirty surroundings could indicate neglectful care.
Financial Discrepancies: Items missing from a resident’s room or unexpected changes in financial situations may signal financial abuse.
Why Don’t Nursing Home Residents Report Their Abuse?
Often, nursing home residents do not report their abuse due to fear of retaliation, lack of physical ability, or cognitive impairments. They may also feel ashamed or embarrassed. It is crucial for family members and friends of a nursing home resident to be alert to signs of abuse and take action, including legal action when necessary.
Common Types of Injuries from Elder Abuse
Elder abuse often leads to devastating injuries, both physical and psychological. Physical injuries can range from fractures, bedsores, and malnutrition, to more severe injuries like head trauma. Not only do these injuries cause physical discomfort, but they can also lead to a sharp decline in the elder’s health and wellness.
Alongside physical injuries, the psychological impact of abuse shouldn’t be underestimated. Emotional abuse can lead to depression, anxiety, and a decrease in confidence or self-esteem, dramatically affecting the quality of life of the elderly person.
What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse in Oak Park
If you suspect nursing home neglect or abuse in Oak Park, here are the essential steps to take:
- Document Evidence: Keep detailed records, including medical records, of any incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions.
- Speak with the Victim: If possible, discuss the issue with the elder person or family member privately to understand their experiences better.
- Notify Supervisors: Speak with any staff members involved. Report the suspected abuse to the nursing home’s management or supervisor.
- Contact Adult Protective Services: Inform the local Adult Protective Services agency about your suspicions.
- Seek Legal Counsel: Consult experienced nursing home abuse lawyers to understand your legal options better.
- File a Police Report: If the abuse and neglect are severe or involve criminal behavior, contact the local police department.
- Keep Visiting: Continue visiting the elder to reassure them and monitor their wellbeing.
How to Report Suspected Elder Abuse in Oak Park
To report suspected elder abuse in Oak Park to the Illinois Adult Protective Services, you can visit their website. They also have a 24-hour Elder Abuse Hotline that you can reach at 1-866-800-1409 or 1-888-206-1327 for TTY.
How an Oak Park Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Seek Justice
Oak Park nursing home abuse lawyers provide a range of crucial services:
- Case Evaluation: They thoroughly assess your case, determining its viability and potential compensatory damages.
- Investigation: They conduct investigations to uncover evidence supporting your claim.
- Legal Counsel: They provide professional guidance through the entire process.
- Representation in Court: They represent you in court if settlement negotiations fail.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: They handle negotiations with insurance firms,
- Documentation: They handle all legal paperwork associated with your case, from filing to settlement.
Types of Compensation Abuse Victims
Nursing home abuse victims may be entitled to various types of compensation under Illinois law.
These include economic damages like medical expenses, other medical treatment or costs, and stolen property or funds.
Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life may also be compensated.
In extreme cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from committing similar acts.
The exact amount of compensation will vary depending on the specific details of the case, including the severity of the abuse and the extent of the damages suffered.
What Is My Nursing Home Abuse Case Worth?
Nursing home abuse lawyers consider several factors in valuing your nursing home abuse case. These include the severity of the injuries, the medical bills and rehabilitation costs, any lost income, the loss of quality of life, the severity of the perpetrator’s conduct, and any future needs or costs resulting from the abuse.
Contact an Oak Park Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today
Don’t let your loved ones suffer Illinois nursing home abuse in silence.
Take the first step to seek justice by scheduling a free consultation with an Oak Park personal injury attorney at The Kryder Law Group, LLC, Accident and Injury Lawyers today. In this session, you’ll discuss the details of your case confidentially with our skilled legal team, understanding the possible legal avenues and potential outcomes.
Our nursing home abuse lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our commitment is justice-first. Contact us today and stand up against nursing home abuse.
(312) 223-1700