At Nava Law Group, we understand the devastating impacts people suffer because of nursing home abuse in the Houston area. We are committed to helping our clients find justice and peace of mind through our compassionate and effective legal representation. Our legal team works tirelessly to hold responsible parties accountable and obtain the compensation you deserve. So, if you or someone you know has been a victim of nursing home abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for legal support and guidance.

What Is Nursing Home Abuse?

Nursing home abuse is a form of mistreatment or neglect that occurs in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It can take many forms and have serious physical and emotional consequences for the victims.

• Physical Abuse—This form of nursing home abuse includes any intentional physical harm inflicted upon an elderly resident, such as hitting, pushing, or restraining them.
• Emotional Abuse—Any behavior that causes psychological distress to the resident, such as verbal threats, humiliation, or isolation, is considered emotional nursing home abuse.
• Neglect—This type of nursing home abuse occurs when a caregiver fails to provide necessary care and attention to a resident, leading to a resident’s harm or injury.

What Are Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

Unfortunately, nursing home abuse can be challenging to detect and often goes unreported. However, some common warning signs may indicate that a resident is experiencing mistreatment or neglect in a long-term care facility. It’s essential for family members and loved ones to regularly visit and communicate with their elderly relatives in long-term care facilities to stay aware of any potential signs of nursing home abuse.  So, if you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to seek legal support:

• Physical Signs—Unexplainable injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones, can signal physical signs of nursing home abuse.
• Emotional Signs—Sudden behavioral changes, withdrawal from social activities, or fear around certain staff members are common indicators of emotional abuse.
• Neglect Signs—Poor hygiene, malnutrition, and untreated medical conditions are telltale signs of nursing home abuse in the form of neglect.

What to Do if You Suspect Your Loved One Is Being Abused

If you suspect that your loved one is a nursing home abuse victim, it is essential to take immediate action. Your quick response can protect them and hold the responsible parties accountable. Here’s what to do if you suspect your loved one is being abused:

• Gather Evidence—Take photos of any physical injuries or document suspicious behavior.
• Report the Abuse—Contact the facility’s management or local authorities to report the abuse and seek assistance.
• Seek Medical Attention—If your loved one has suffered physical harm, seek medical care and document their injuries.
• Consult With an Attorney—Experienced attorneys can provide guidance on legal options and support during this difficult time.

What Are a Nursing Home Resident’s Rights?

Nursing home residents have the right to receive proper care and treatment in a safe environment, including protection from abuse and neglect. Family members and loved ones must understand these rights to advocate for their elderly relatives if necessary. At Nava Law Group, we will fight tirelessly to protect nursing home residents’ rights and ensure they receive proper care and treatment. Some specific rights that nursing home residents have included the following:

• The right to receive treatment with respect and dignity.
• The right to privacy, including personal belongings and medical records.
• The right to make healthcare decisions unless deemed incompetent by a court.
• The right to get information about health or treatment plan changes.

Nursing Home Abuse Vs. Nursing Home Neglect

Nursing home abuse and neglect are two forms of mistreatment that can occur in long-term care facilities. It is important to understand these distinctions when seeking legal action and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions. While they may have similar consequences, here are some key differences you should know:

• Intentional vs. Unintentional—Abuse involves intentional harm, while nursing home neglect is often a result of inadequate care or attention.
• Physical vs. Emotional—Abuse typically involves physical harm, while nursing home neglect can manifest in poor hygiene, malnutrition, or untreated medical conditions.
• Legal Ramifications—Nursing home abuse can result in criminal charges and civil lawsuits against the responsible parties. In contrast, neglect may only result in legal action if it leads to significant harm or injury.

Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Are Ready to Help You

Nava Law Group has Houston nursing home abuse lawyers passionate about defending victims of nursing home abuse in Houston, Bellaire, McAllen, Corpus Christi, and San Antonio, TX. We understand how sensitive and complex these cases can be, so we provide compassionate legal representation. Let us help you find justice and peace of mind during this difficult time. Contact us today for a free legal consultation and learn how we can hold those accountable for their actions and obtain compensation for your pain.