Reporting Abuse And Neglect

Unfortunately, the neglect or abuse of nursing home residents frequently occurs without intervention. A nursing home resident may be prevented from reporting abuse or may be hesitant to report neglect or abuse out of fear of retaliation or even because they do not want to burden friends or loved ones.

Because signs of nursing home abuse are sometimes dismissed as indicators of old age or dementia, it is important that loved ones recognize the signs of mistreatment. These include:

• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Open wounds or bedsores
• Poor hygiene
• Significant or sudden weight loss
• Unresponsiveness
• Physical or emotional withdrawal

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, report it to the Delaware Department of Justice, Fraud and Consumer Protection Division, and Elderly Abuse and Exploitation Project, at 800-223-9074.

Through its Incident and Complaint Referral Center (IRC), the Division of Long-Term Care Residents Protection receives information regarding incidents and complaints pertaining to possible abuse, neglect, mistreatment and/or financial exploitation of residents in long-term care facilities. The agency maintains the information in a computerized central database. Investigative staff members analyze each report and determine what follow-up action is appropriate.

The experienced nursing home abuse lawyers at Nitsche & Fredricks LLC can assist in assessing the situation and protecting the rights of your elderly relative. If it can be demonstrated that a nursing home or its employees have acted negligently, the nursing home may be held liable for any resulting damages. Damages available in a nursing home abuse lawsuit may include medical bills, pain and suffering, and disfigurement and disability.

Our attorneys understand that no amount of compensation can make up for the pain your family has suffered, but it may assist in establishing accountability for those who failed to meet the basic standards of quality care.

Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation in which we can review the facts of your case and recommend the best steps to take.