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Nursing Homes: A Place of Care or a Place of Abuse?

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at Mike Agruss Law.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Over 8000+ consumer rights cases settled.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent, there are approximately 1.5 million residents in nursing homes. When you think of nursing homes, you think about the care and nurture it provides to the elderly and disabled. You see it as a safe haven for your grandparents, parents, and maybe one day yourself?

Unfortunately, the reality of nursing homes is not as colorful or heavenly as they are painted to be. Rather, according to CBS News Correspondent, Bill Whitaker, nearly one third of nursing homes have been cited for abuse. Numerous reports have been filed about residents being physically abused. The abuse includes being chocked, punched, and kicked by staff members or other residents.

How Can I Prevent Nursing Home Abuse From Happening to Me or to a Loved One?

The first step is to be aware of your environment and those around you, including the staff members and residents of the nursing home. Next, know the warning signs, so you can better protect your loved ones. What is nursing home abuse? If you notice that your loved one exhibits any of the following, you should take action immediately: broken bones, bed sores, bruises, head injuries, medication overdose, dehydration or malnutrition, poor hygiene, soiled bedding, rapid weight loss, sudden agitation or emotional withdrawal, frequent crying, or complaints of poor treatment.

According to Consumer Justice Group a complaint should be filed once an incident occurs. There are several steps that should be followed to adequately file a nursing home complaint. First, the complaint should be brief. The complaint should include: your name, contact phone number and address, the name of the nursing home, its address and phone number, and the problem or incident you are complaining about. Second, the complaint should be sent to a government agency that is responsible for investigating claims against nursing homes. For instance, in Illinois, claims should be reported to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Usually, the agency contacts the individual who sent in the complaint to discuss the complaint in detail. The agency then makes a “surprise” visit to the facility to conduct its investigation.

Finally, and most importantly, you should get legal help. Yes, you should speak with an attorney to enforce your rights. More than 30% of nursing homes in the country experience some form of resident abuse. If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a nursing home, contact Mike Agruss Law, for a free consultation.

Mike Agruss Law, is a Chicago personal injury law firm. Mike Agruss Law, represents victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout Illinois. We will handle your case quickly, advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation.

Plus, Mike Agruss Law, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our firm—just the opportunity to seek justice. Protect your loved one’s rights by contacting us today.

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