Elder Abuse and Neglect at Skilled Nursing Facilities

Written by Adam Peck Category: Elder Abuse March 14th, 2024 3 min read

Elder Abuse and Neglect at Skilled Nursing Facilities

The American population over age 65 is projected to grow from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050. This 47% increase will drive increased demand for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and skilled nursing facilities that offer medical rehabilitation and care.

Unfortunately, as the industry faces growing pressure, elder abuse and neglect incidents are also projected to increase, especially in understaffed or under-resourced facilities.

If you or a loved one has experienced elder abuse and / or neglect at skilled nursing facilities, the Peck Law Group will fight to bring those responsible to justice. Speak with an experienced attorney today for your free case evaluation.

Types of Elder Abuse in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Residents in skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are often at their most vulnerable. They may be physically frail, living with cognitive impairments, or recovering from surgery or other acute health issues.

Unfortunately, these factors make residents easy targets for abuse by staff, fellow residents and others with access to the facility. Elder abuse typically falls into one of the following categories:

Neglect occurs when caregivers’ fail to meet a residents’ needs, including proper nutrition, hydration, hygiene, medical care, medication management and more.
Physical abuse in nursing facilities can include hitting, kicking, improper use of restraints and other actions that result in bodily harm.
Sexual abuse can include rape, sexual assault, sexual coercion, exploitative photography and other inappropriate behaviors.
Emotional and psychological abuse can manifest as verbal abuse, threats, humiliation, isolation, withholding privileges and other mistreatment. This type of abuse can be detrimental to residents’ mental health and quality of life.
Financial exploitation is most likely to occur when skilled nursing facilities have a hand in residents’ financial affairs. Elderly individuals, especially those with cognitive impairment, can be manipulated into signing documents, withdrawing or exchanging money, and even revising their wills to benefit abusers.

Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect at Skilled Nursing Facilities

Sometimes, an elderly person is unable to recognize or communicate that they have been abused or neglected, often in the cases of cognitive or physical impairment. In other cases, they may be too fearful or ashamed to report their abuse. While elder abuse often flies under the radar, families can help prevent further harm by watching carefully for warning signs.

Some potential signs of abuse include:

Broken bones, bruises or other types of injuries.
Numerous Falls with broken bones
Bedsores or other wounds that do not heal.
Mood changes, withdrawal or disinterest in usual activities.
Decreased energy.
Weight loss or Malnutrition.
Dehydration
Poor personal hygiene leading to UTI’S and Sepsis
Unsanitary living conditions.
Medication errors or discrepancies.
Sexual Assault
Elopement / Wondering out of the Facility ending up in Physical Injury.
Fear or anxiety, especially around particular individuals.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Elder Abuse

Victims of elder abuse do not have to suffer in silence. With the right lawyer on your side, you or your loved one can pursue compensation to hold abusers accountable.

The Peck Law Group has helped California victims recover millions of dollars in damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, wrongful death, and more. With more than 54 years of combined experience, we have fought for justice in cases of elder abuse and neglect in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other long-term care facilities.

Please request a free case evaluation at 866-999-9085 or at premierlegal.org/evaluation/.

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Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.