Miami Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
From water sports, the nightlife, and year-long warm weather, Florida has something to offer everyone. Our state attracts youth as well as the elderly, as seen in the varying age ranges within the state. The average age in the U.S. is 37.2 years old, while Florida’s average is 40.7. However, some cities in Florida have incredibly young populations, such as Gainesville (24.9 years average) and Tallahassee (26.1 years old). Meanwhile, Miami’s average age is 39.2.
With the aging population of Florida and the rest of the U.S., it is important to ensure that the elderly are treated with respect and kindness. The present day population is such that 14.1 percent of the U.S. population is 65 years or older, and by 2040 that number is predicted to be 21.7 percent. A lot can be said about a country by how it treats it elderly. Many of our Miami nursing homes and retirement centers employ tender and caring staff. However, nursing home abuse and neglect is a real concern for thousands of nursing home residents across the country. Contact our experienced Miami nursing home abuse lawyers today.
Nursing Home Abuse is Underreported in Miami
Most cases of nursing home abuse are never reported. Sadly, most abuse is inflicted by family members of the victim, and the victim rarely reports the incidents because they don’t wish to get their family in trouble. Another reason elder abuse is so rarely reported is that the victim believes they do not have the physical or mental strength to stand up for themselves, and they may fear retaliation.
While it is a difficult subject to discuss, let alone think about, it is up to you to put the abuse and neglect to an end. The transition between independent living and assisted living is tough on everyone involved, and the prospect of a family member being treated unfairly scares us. It is important to not turn a blind eye, however. While the staff may seem friendly and the residence clean, inviting, and warm, there are signs of abuse to look out for. Listed below are just a few signs of possible abuse or neglect.
- Bruises, welts, or scars (in particular on both sides of the body) that are unexplained;
- Broken bones, dislocations, sprains;
- A drug overdose;
- Damaged personal property such as eyeglass frames;
- Burn marks on wrists (from restraints);
- Caregiver refusing to allow you personal time with the resident;
- Behavior that is associated with dementia such as rocking, mumbling, or sucking;
- Bruises around genitals or breasts;
- Venereal disease or genital infections;
- Vaginal or anal bleeding;
- Damaged underclothing;
- Unexplained weight loss or dehydration;
- Bed sores; and
- Being unclean or having unsanitary bedding or clothing.
The Rights of Fort Lauderdale Nursing Residents
All residents of nursing homes have the right to their own decision making under Florida law.
All nursing homes must display this right publicly and educate their staff and residents of this right. Listed below are types of nursing home abuse and neglect:
- Physical abuse;
- Sexual abuse;
- Denial of food and water;
- Denial of adequate shelter and other comforts; and
- Stealing from the resident.
Contact our Experienced Miami Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
If you suspect neglect, it is vital to talk to a Miami nursing home abuse lawyer to discuss taking legal action and stop the abuse once and for all. The Pendas Law Firm will aggressively pursue your nursing home abuse claim and seek justice for your loved one. Please do not wait if you suspect elder abuse is taking place; call us today for a free consultation.
