Suspect nursing home abuse or neglect? What you can do

If you have a friend or loved one in a Virginia nursing home or assisted living facility, you are probably concerned about the possibility that they will suffer from abuse or neglect.  Even though this is an uncomfortable topic, it is important that you trust your instincts and take action if you suspect that an elder you know is being hurt.

Worried about abuse? Take action:

• Learn the warning signs of elder abuse and neglect.  If you see something suspicious, report it.
• Contact the Virginia Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to report a suspected case of abuse.
• Contact an experienced attorney to discuss your concerns about nursing home abuse or neglect.
• Call or visit the facility as much as you can, or have a trusted friend of family member visit as often as possible.  Not only can you head off abuse by being around frequently, but the elder will grow to trust you enough to confess that abuse is happening.
• If caregivers appear stressed or if the nursing home appears short-staffed, raise your concerns with management.  Stress and lack of adequate staffing are two things that contribute to abuse and neglect of elderly residents.

Please read more about nursing home and assisted living abuse and neglect in our law library.  We have a large number of articles on a wide range of topics relevant to elder abuse and neglect.

Elder abuse and neglect is a crime.  Please contact our Norfolk based law office to take action and secure justice for your loved one.