Protecting Victims of Physical and Sexual Abuse
Nursing home residents are vulnerable to physical and sexual abuse because they are physically dependent on their caregivers and are often outside of the control and supervision of their loved ones. Additionally, they often have communication problems that prevent them from advocating for themselves or reporting abuse to those who care for them. Physical and sexual abuse while in the care of a nursing home is a heinous offense. If you suspect that your loved one has been the victim of physical or sexual abuse perpetrated by nursing home staff or another nursing home resident, the attorneys at Noonan Perillo & Thut Ltd. can help.
Types of Abuse in Nursing Homes
Many nursing homes offer compassionate and competent care to their residents, but all too often that is not the case. Overstaffing, undertraining, poor staff screening, and other factors can contribute to a dangerous environment for nursing home residents. It is not uncommon for residents to suffer physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, factures, and burns without explanation. These can be signs of physical abuse.
Residents with cognitive issues such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and those mentally incapacitated due to stroke or other medical problems are at a higher risk for physical and sexual abuse and assault because they are unable to defend themselves or seek help. As the loved one of a nursing home resident, you must advocate for them. If you suspect abuse, you should immediately remove your loved one from that nursing home and report the abuse to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
When your loved one is safe, you should contact our attorneys to help you hold the nursing home and any other responsible parties accountable for the abuse. Your loved one has a right to compensation for his or her injuries and taking civil action helps send the message that abuse in nursing homes is unacceptable and will be punished.
To discuss your case with experienced and knowledgeable nursing home negligence attorneys, Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation. Our firm is located in Waukegan, Illinois and we handle cases throughout Lake County and across Illinois.