Advocating for the Rights of the Elderly for 65+ Years
We entrust nursing homes and other long-term care facilities with the safekeeping of our family members and loved ones. Yet, all too often, elderly or disabled residents don’t receive the kind of quality care and attention they need and deserve.
For-profit corporations own many of the institutions that provide long-term care for the elderly. In an effort to maximize profits, such institutions can cut back on staff or hire less qualified, less expensive workers in an attempt to save money. As a result, nursing home neglect—and even abuse—are growing problems. Too many residents who require assistance with every-day routines—such as eating, bathing, going to the bathroom or walking—are not receiving an appropriate level of care.
If you believe your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact the nursing home abuse attorneys at Ashcraft & Gerel. For more than 65 years, we have been representing clients in Maryland and Virginia.
We understand the immense toll nursing home abuse and negligence has, both on victims and their families. Our attorneys are prepared to help you and your loved one fight fair compensation.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect
Failing to provide the necessary attention to our elderly can lead directly to serious injury. Individuals may fall and hurt themselves, suffer from malnutrition, or develop painful sores or ulcers on their skin. In some cases, a loved one may even die.
In many cases, elderly and/or disabled individuals are not able or willing to speak up for themselves. As such, it is important that loved ones and family members are able to recognize the signs of nursing home abuse and/or neglect so that they can advocate on their behalf.
Some of these signs include:
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, broken bones, and other injuries
- Untreated or improperly treated illnesses, such as pneumonia
- Bed sores (also known as pressure ulcers)
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Unwillingness to speak in front of staff members or nurses
- Soiled sheets/bedding
- Malnutrition or changes in weight
Note that nursing home abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial in nature. It’s important to look out for signs of any of these forms of neglect/abuse.
How We Can Help
Justice for Your Loved One
For many years, Ashcraft & Gerel has successfully represented nursing home residents and their families. Our nursing home abuse attorneys devote considerable resources to protecting the rights of our most vulnerable citizens. We are committed to upholding the quality of care in these institutions by taking swift legal action to compensate nursing home residents and their families for injuries or death resulting from neglect or inadequate care. We firmly believe this is the only way to ensure that all residents continue receiving the high quality of care they deserve.
If you feel that you or a loved one have been victimized by neglect or abuse while in the care of a senior citizen living facility, Ashcraft & Gerel stands ready to investigate and pursue all available civil damage remedies
Fighting Nursing Home Abuse Through the Courts
Nursing home abuse should be reported and stopped wherever necessary. However, to file a civil suit, claimants must have “standing,” or a personal stake in the issue.Qui tam law provides an exception: When a citizen suspects the government is being defrauded, they may file a case on its behalf. Our team is experienced in whistleblower protection andqui tam law because we know the impact a concerned citizen can have.
Under the new National Nursing Home Initiative, the federal government is urging anyone who has knowledge of nursing home abuse to step forward with a report or aqui tam case. Whether you are a staff member concerned about retaliation should you report or a visitor who witnessed abusive behavior, our team is here to help you take legal action.
Office Locations Throughout Maryland & Virginia
If you are even considering filing a lawsuit, we urge you to reach out to our team today. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your legal options and decide your next step. Our client-focused team can meet you wherever is best: In the hospital, at your home, or at one of our many office locations.
