Placing a cherished family member in a nursing home is one of the most difficult decisions you may ever have to make. You trust that the facility and its staff will provide the highest level of care to keep your loved one safe, healthy, and comfortable. But what happens when that trust is broken? What should you do if you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect?
As a Charleston nursing home abuse lawyer who has represented many families in this heartbreaking situation, the team at Briggs Law Group wants to provide guidance on what you need to do to protect your loved one and hold the responsible parties accountable. Recognizing the signs of elder abuse and knowing what to do if you suspect mistreatment in a South Carolina nursing home can make all the difference in ensuring your family member’s well-being.
The Shocking Reality of Nursing Home Abuse
The statistics around nursing home abuse in the United States are alarming. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 60+ are elder abuse victims. Some estimates indicate that as many as five million elders are abused each year. And with over 1.4 million people residing in nursing homes across the country, this is a widespread problem that impacts thousands of families.
South Carolina alone has over 18,000 beds in approximately 200 licensed nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. While most of these homes provide quality care, abuse and neglect still occur at unacceptable rates. In the most recent data from the South Carolina Department of Aging, there were over 2,800 complaints filed against nursing homes in a single year, with over 1,600 of those complaints substantiated after investigation.
Tragically, many cases of nursing home abuse and neglect go unreported. Elderly residents may be unable or afraid to speak up about mistreatment. Family members may not know how to spot the warning signs. This is why it is so critical for loved ones to stay vigilant, visit often, ask questions, and take action if something seems amiss. You are your family member’s strongest advocate.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Nursing home abuse can take many different forms, from physical and sexual assault to emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect of basic needs. Some of the most common warning signs to be aware of include:
- Unexplained wounds, such as bruises, cuts, welts, or fractures
- Bedsores, infections, or signs of poor hygiene and substandard medical attention
- Abrupt behavioral shifts, including withdrawal, fear, or agitation
- Signs of malnutrition, dehydration, or unexpected weight loss
- Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions, such as dirty bedding, extreme temperatures, or hazardous flooring
- Missing possessions or unusual financial activity
- Staff displaying belittling, controlling, or intimidating behavior
- Excessive use of restraints or improper sedation with medication
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list. Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right with your loved one’s care or living situation, do not hesitate to dig deeper and demand answers from the facility.
What To Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect in South Carolina
If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home, it is crucial to take the following steps to ensure their safety and well-being:
- Report your concerns to nursing home administrators. As soon as you notice any potential signs of mistreatment, bring them to the attention of the facility’s administrators, nursing director, or other supervisors and demand a thorough investigation. Document your conversations and any commitments made by the staff.
- File a complaint with state authorities. How do you report abuse in a nursing home? Each state has an agency responsible for licensing and regulating long-term care facilities. The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) investigates complaints against South Carolina nursing homes. You can file an online complaint on their website or call their complaint hotline. The South Carolina Long Term Care Ombudsman also advocates for nursing home residents and investigates complaints.
- Report abuse to local law enforcement. If you believe your loved one is in immediate danger or a victim of a crime, report the situation to local police right away, in addition to filing a complaint with the state health department. Elder abuse can carry serious criminal penalties.
- Seek medical attention for your loved one. If your family member has been injured or shows signs of medical distress, get them evaluated by an independent doctor or hospital not associated with the nursing home. Have the injuries documented and photographed.
- Consider relocating your loved one. Depending on the severity and urgency of the situation, you may need to move your family member to a new facility or back home, where you can ensure their safety. An experienced nursing home negligence attorney can help walk you through this process and ensure the continuity of care.
Choosing the Right Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
If you decide to consult with an attorney about suspected nursing home abuse, it is important to choose someone with the right qualifications and track record to give you the best chance at a successful outcome. Look for an attorney who:
- Has experience handling nursing home negligence and elder abuse cases, not just general personal injury
- Treats you and your family with empathy, patience, and responsiveness
- Has experience taking cases to trial against nursing homes when needed, not just settling
- Has a strong network of medical experts to strengthen your case
- Is respected by colleagues and past clients for their work in elder abuse litigation
Protecting the Dignity of Our Elders
Making the decision to place an elderly family member in a nursing home is often fraught with guilt, worry, and heartache. We want to know they will receive the respect, compassion, and skilled care they need to maintain their health and dignity in their final years. Anything less is unacceptable.
Sadly, nursing home abuse and neglect shatter too many families’ trust each year in South Carolina and across the country. But you do not have to face this difficult situation alone. If you suspect your loved one has been mistreated in a long-term care facility, contact Briggs Law Group right away!