News & Resources
Reporting Nursing Home Abuse
Elderly adults are vulnerable and those who reside in nursing homes and assisted living facilities are especially at risk of abuse and neglect. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than two million elderly adults are abused in America each year.
In 73 percent of abuse cases, elderly individuals suffered neglect and physical abuse that can cause serious and permanent harm. Florida is no different from the rest of the country and residents of the state struggle with effects from nursing home abuse and neglect.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Despite being heavily regulated, nursing homes in Florida continue to violate state and federal regulations by abusing nursing home residents. Common forms of nursing home abuse include:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse and assault
- Emotional abuse and intimidation
- Theft
- Neglect of personal hygiene and grooming
- Withholding of medication or over-medication
- Malnutrition
It is vital to visit your loved one often and also pay attention to significant changes in a nursing home resident’s behavior to detect abuse. Increasingly silent, withdrawn, or depressed behavior may indicate nursing home abuse is occurring.
Nursing Home Licenses & Regulations
The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) licenses nursing homes in Florida. The agency also oversees all nursing home abuse complaints. Additionally, the agency investigates nursing homes on an annual basis with unannounced facility inspections and audits of medical records and procedures.
On the federal level, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for Medicare and Medicaid Services oversees nursing homes. Despite strict nursing regulations, nursing home abuse in Florida remains prevalent.
The most important thing is to ensure the safety of loved ones in nursing home facilities. If you suspect nursing home abuse you should consider filing a nursing home abuse complaint with the state of Florida. You should also consider contacting an experienced attorney.
Justice for Nursing Home Abuse Victims
Experienced nursing home abuse attorneys at Alley Clark & Greiwe are committed to helping elder abuse victims and their families get justice. Our attorneys will fight for your loved one’s rights so that you and your family are fairly compensated for the injuries caused by the abuse.
Schedule a free consultation to find out how our attorneys can help stop the abuse.
