Medical Malpractice – Nursing Home

The ageing population in the United States is leading to a greater number of elderly people making use of nursing homes, as well as an increase in the number of nursing homes. There are currently over 1.5 million elderly people living in nursing homes in the US. As with any kind of care that is offered, nursing homes are subject to their own problems. The elderly are especially vulnerable victims, many not having family or friends nearby to turn to with problems, others simply too frightened to come forward.

In the last few years, it has come to light that nursing home abuse or elder abuse is a widespread and serious issue at nursing homes all over the US. The abuse can take various forms and can start with neglect, which can include: locking patients into their rooms, denying food or water, misuse/overuse of restraints, theft and/or threats of harm. These actions can quickly escalate into torture, sexual assault, psychological and emotional abuse and even death.

Federal and state regulations exist to oversee nursing homes, but in many cases this is not enough. To maximize profits, nursing homes may admit more patients than they are capable of handling, nurses and staff are stretched to their limits or under-qualified staff are hired to reduce costs. All these and more causes can lead to nursing home abuse. The problem is escalated by the fact that most elderly victims are ashamed or even scared to come forward. If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of nursing home or elder abuse, it is highly like that others in the home are being treated in a similar manner. Bring this to the attention of the federal or state body so that the abuse can be stopped. A medical malpractice suit can be brought against the facility, as well as the employees.