Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

Susan B. Geffen has been looking out for the elderly for over 25 years as an elder law attorney, gerontologist, and former law professor. She is the author of the book, “Take That Nursing Home and Shove It!”

Ms. Geffen is committed to fighting for the rights and dignity of the elderly, who are no longer able to protect themselves from being abused.

It is estimated that over 3.2 million adults are living in nursing homes and other facilities for long term care.

Many of these, estimated around 40 percent will need to go into a nursing home at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, many of these people will encounter some form of abuse or another. These abuses can be difficult to detect, as only one in five cases are reported. Surprisingly, three fourths of the cases are perpetrated by the very people who are supposed to be caring for them. Recently a congressional report concluded a study over a two year period showing that nearly one in three nursing homes were cited for violations that had the potential to cause harm. Almost ten percent actually have violations that caused actual harm or serious injury or death. Due to reports like these, legislatures in all 50 states have passed anti elder-abuse laws but nursing home abuse continues to occur. What are the most common types of nursing home abuses?

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse includes, hitting, pushing, shoving, shaking, striking, slapping, kicking, pinching and burning. Look for signs of bruising which are oen caused by belts, buckles or electrical cords) abrasions, burns or fractures. If you see any signs of injury out of the ordinary you should be concerned.

Sexual Abuse

Surprisingly, this is very common. The most common signs are genital or anal infection, discomfort walking or sitting, or bilateral bruising of inner thighs. You may also notice changes in behavior, like fear or anger.

Psychological Abuse

It can be difficult to detect, but you should look for signs like changes in mood, agitation and fear.

Neglect

A common form of neglect is failure of a caregiver to provide adequate care. This may include not providing medicines, allowing for poor hygiene, inadequate food and not providing for personal safety.

Common signs of neglect include:

• Bed sores
• Rashes
• Untreated injuries or medical problems.
• Poor hygiene
• Hunger Malnutrition or dehydration
• Pallor or sunken cheeks or eyes
• Or lack of clean clothing or bedding

If you suspect elder abuse in a nursing home, an assisted living, or at a home, contact the Law Offices of Susan B. Geffen.