Blank Kim Injury Law Logo
(833) 435-3589

How to Recognize Neglect in a Maryland Nursing Home?

Free Injury Consultation
How to Recognize Neglect in a Maryland Nursing Home?

When you think of a nursing home, you probably think of elderly patients who require assistance. However, the reality is that many elderly people are living in nursing homes for a variety of reasons, including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, mental illness, and other conditions. Unfortunately, the care provided to these individuals is often not up to par, and many nursing homes fail to provide adequate supervision and care. As a result, elderly people are often at risk of being abused or neglected.

If you believe your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, then call the law offices of Blank Kim Injury Law to speak with a nursing home neglect lawyer. We can help you pursue compensation.

Local hospitals:

  • UM Bowie Health Center
  • AAMC Pavilion – Bowie
  • Bowie Health Center-Emergency Med
  • Kaiser Permanente Bowie Fairwood Medical Center

What is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is defined as any act or omission that causes harm or distress to an older person. This may include physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, neglectful care, exploitation, fraud, deception, undue influence, or abandonment.

It is estimated that 1 in 6 seniors are victims of elder abuse, according to the World Health Organization. In addition to obvious physical injuries, such as broken bones, bruises, cuts, and burns, elderly individuals often suffer from depression, anxiety, loneliness, isolation, confusion, fear, and anger. They may become depressed due to the stress of living alone, lack of companionship, and feelings of helplessness.

They may also develop anxiety and panic attacks due to the fear of falling, becoming lost or suffering another injury.
Some elderly individuals may be exploited financially, physically, emotionally, sexually, or psychologically. Some may be forced to give away their property or possessions.

How Can I Spot Maryland Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?

Unfortunately, nursing homes aren't immune to abuse and neglect. Some residents are mistreated, neglected, abused, or even killed

Signs of Nursing Home Neglect:

  • Poor Staff Training
    Poor staff training is one of the most common causes of nursing home abuse and neglect. If you notice that staff members don't seem knowledgeable about patient care, ask questions.
  • Lack of Supervision
    If you notice that staff members aren't properly supervised, you should speak up. This means that staff members shouldn't be alone with patients.
  • Unsafe Conditions
    Unsafe conditions include dirty floors, broken windows, and unsafe equipment. These conditions can lead to injuries and accidents.
  • Overcrowded Living Areas
    Overcrowded living areas mean that patients are forced to share rooms with others. This can cause problems such as bed sores, infections, and urinary tract infections.
  • Patients Who Aren't Treated Properly
    Patients who aren't treated properly include those who aren't given proper nutrition, medication, or medical attention.
  • Patients Who Don't Get Enough Exercise
    Exercise helps prevent falls, muscle atrophy, and bone fractures.
  • Patients Who Aren't Given Necessary Medications
    Medication is essential for treating illnesses and preventing complications.
    Contact management immediately if you notice patients aren't receiving necessary medications.
  • Patients Who Aren't Cared For Properly
    Caring for patients involves taking their temperatures, checking their vital signs, and providing them with clean clothes and bedding.
  • Patients Who Aren't Cleaned Up After
    Cleanliness is an important part of caring for patients.
    If you notice unclean facilities, report them to management immediately.

What Are Some Red Flag Injuries Indicative of Neglect?

Nursing homes are supposed to provide care for elderly patients. However, sometimes nursing homes neglect these patients. This can lead to serious injuries. Neglected injuries are often overlooked until they become serious medical conditions.

  • Falls
  • Pressure Ulcers
  • Infections
  • Burns
  • Dementia
  • Malnutrition
  • Abuse
  • Medication Errors

How To Report Nursing Home Abuse in Maryland?

Sadly, only 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse is reported according to NCOA.org. In order to report nursing home abuse, you first need to determine whether an incident has occurred.

  • If you suspect that abuse may have taken place, call the police immediately.
  • After calling the police, you should contact the state Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. They will investigate the situation and decide whether further action is needed.
  • If you believe abuse has occurred, you should file a complaint against the facility. This will allow the state to conduct its investigation.
  • If you think that abuse has taken place and the state determines that no further action is necessary, you can still file a lawsuit against the facility.
  • You should consult with an attorney if you believe you were harmed due to negligence. An experienced lawyer can advise you on filing a claim against the facility.

Should I File a Maryland Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?

In Maryland, nursing home neglect is a serious problem that impacts thousands of elderly residents every year. As a result, it is important that you take action if your loved one is being neglected. If you suspect your loved one is being mistreated or neglected in a Maryland nursing home, you should immediately seek out a nursing home neglect attorney.

An attorney can assist you in preparing your complaint, negotiating settlement terms, and presenting your case to a jury. Additionally, an attorney can advise you about the potential risks associated with pursuing a nursing home abuse claim. A skilled lawyer can also help you avoid costly mistakes that could jeopardize your chances of winning your case.

Maryland Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Can Help You Protect Your Loved One

Maryland nursing home neglect attorneys at Blank Kim Injury Law are here to help you if you or a loved one has been physically or emotionally abused or neglected while living in a nursing home. Nursing home abuse and neglect can be very severe and impact not only the victim but also the entire family. Often, nursing home residents are unable to communicate due to their physical or mental conditions, making it difficult for the victim to get help. The victim of nursing home abuse and neglect may have trouble finding help from the nursing home staff and even the police.

If you or a loved one was harmed while living in a nursing home, you should immediately contact a Maryland nursing home neglect attorney for legal assistance. Call our law firm today for a free case evaluation.

Contact our local injury law offices for a free case consultation

Serving Maryland from Our Local Offices

Do You Qualify?
  • Details
  • Incident
  • Aftermath

Free Case Evaluation

Blank Kim Injury Law Logo

Our Local Law Firm Locations Near You

Silver Spring Law Office
8455 Colesville Rd #920,
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(833) 435-3589
Frederick MD Law Office
122 E Patrick St, #104
Frederick, MD 21701
(240) 599-8553
Annapolis Law Office
185 Admiral Cochrane Dr Suite 115,
Annapolis MD 21401
(443) 545-3545
Baltimore Law Office
8455 Colesville Rd #920,
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(443) 545-3696
Ellicott City, MD Law Office
3459 St Johns Ln, Suite 6
Ellicott City MD 21042
(443) 545-3664