A Nursing Home Lawyer Is Here to Help You
Our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer knows that discovering your elderly loved one has been neglected or abused in the facility that should have been taking care of them can be devastating. You only wanted the best for them, and now have found out that they have been injured. Naturally, you might want justice. We at Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC sympathize with your discovery and would like you to know that our Memphis, TN nursing home lawyers are not okay with nursing home abuse of any form. When we handle these types of claims, we utilize all of our resources to ensure we build a strong case. Our goal is not only to recover monetary damages for the elder’s losses, but also to ensure this behavior will not happen again. If you’re looking for a tenacious, aggressive elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN who won’t settle for anything less, call Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC.
Do You Recognize Any of These Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse comes in many forms and may exhibit a number of different signs. Some are more obvious than others which is why it’s important to pay close attention to your loved one, their behaviors, the staff, and the environment during any of your visits. If you notice any of the following, talking with an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN might be a good idea.
- Bruises
- Burns
- Restraint marks
- Cuts or abrasions
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Sudden development of STDs
- Infections
- Broken bones
- Overly agitated
- Poor hygiene
- Isolated or withdrawn
- Excessive rocking
- Excessive crying
- Uncommunicative
- Appearing “odd” when staff or certain patients are around
- Reluctant to speak when staff are around
- Being unable to get any privacy with the elder
- Unexplained death
- Missing money or items
Whether you recognize one or many of these signs, please understand that there may be a terrible situation going on and you should take a moment to learn about what steps you should take. Reach out to an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN today.
How a Nursing Home Lawyer Might Help You
If it is found that your elderly loved one is being abused or neglected, a Memphis, TN nursing home lawyer may proceed by filing a claim or lawsuit. This involves a process of investigation, gathering of evidence, and more. The elder’s medical records and witness testimony might also be referred to. With this information, a case can be built and presented to the applicable parties. While this is going on, an elder abuse lawyer Memphis, TN trusts can help you to understand what to expect and answer any questions you might have along the way.
If you have immediate concerns about the safety and wellbeing of your elderly loved one, or are worried about retaliation by staff or another patient, please make sure a lawyer knows. Our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyers can provide you with advice regarding how to keep them safe and how best to proceed. Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC would be glad to assist clients in helping them find a solution.
Are You Ready to Explore Your Rights and Legal Options?
If you would like to find out how you can recover compensation for an elderly person’s medical care, pain, suffering, and other losses, please call an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN at Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC as soon as possible.
Understaffing in Nursing Homes
While many families depend on nursing homes to take care of their elderly loved ones, the truth is that many of the nursing homes in this country are dangerously understaffed to the point where they are unable to provide quality and safe care to residents. Understaffing issues often means that the staff that are working are often underpaid, undertrained, and under-qualified, resulting in residents not receiving the treatment and care they need. Our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer has scene this often leading to cases of nursing home negligence and abuse.
If your elderly loved one has been a victim of negligence or abuse at the hands of the nursing home you have entrusted to care for them, contact Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC to find out how an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN can help.
Reasons for Nursing Home Understaffing
A Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer understands there are several common reasons why nursing homes are understaffed. One of the most common reasons is because the owners of the facility are more interested in increasing profits than having the appropriate number of staff on duty. Not having enough staff means that not only do owners not have to pay additional wages, they also save on any benefit packages employees at the home have.
Unfortunately, not having enough staff means that the resident to staff ratio is increased. This causes a number of issues, including a high turnover of staff because they are overstressed from being responsible for too many residents. As a result, our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyers have seen this result in an increased pressure and stress on staff because they are often required to work constant overtime. An additional issue understaffing causes is that there is often a lack of certified and registered nursing staff that have sufficient training and education.
Being under constant stress and forced to work long hours usually leads to a high turnover of staff within the facility. This high turnover means that the level of care residents receive is not consistent. There is also the issue of staff not staying long enough to get to know the individual residents and how to respond to each one and what special needs they have. Our elder abuse lawyer serving Memphis, TN shares that nursing home staff should have special training and experience in working with the elderly. Unfortunately, when there is such a high turnover of staff, it is not uncommon for nursing staff to have no experience with the special needs and medical conditions elderly residents have.
This all means that residents in an understaffed nursing home are not receiving the care they need, and they deserve. This often leads to negligence and abuse of residents. Our elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN shares that negligence occurs when:
- Nursing home staff are so overworked that they do not care for the same residents each day.
- Nursing home staff intentionally ignore the needs of a resident.
- Residents do not receive the basic needs they deserve, such as water, food, daily medication, and personal hygiene care
- Residents are left in their beds without any assistance, resulting in bedsores and other injuries.
- Nursing home staff target certain residents and provide no care for those residents.
An elder abuse lawyer serving Memphis, TN wants you to know that abuse of residents occurs when:
- Nursing home staff physically harm residents
- Nursing home staff verbally attack residents
- Nursing home staff intentionally give residents incorrect medication or incorrect dosage.
- Nursing home staff intentionally terrorizes a resident emotionally.
Contact a Memphis, TN Elder Abuse Lawyer for Help
If you believe your elderly loved one has been injured due to negligence of nursing home staff, contact a compassionate elder abuse lawyer Memphis, TN families trust from Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC to find out what legal recourse your family may have against those responsible for your loved one’s injuries. To schedule a free and confidential consultation, contact our office today.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
At Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC, our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer has seen an increasing number of families seeking guidance from a legal professional for their loved one. As the population in the U.S. continues to age, the number of nursing home residents will increase. Unfortunately, as this number increases, so too will the number of nursing home abuse cases. Statistics from the federal government show that at least one in 13 elderly people have been victims of at least one form of abuse in the past year. Tragically, seniors who suffer from dementia are often the targets of that abuse. At least half of seniors with dementia have suffered some sort of elderly abuse.
Our elder abuse lawyer based in Memphis, Tennessee will tell you that if your loved one is a resident in a nursing home, it is important to be able to recognize the signs of possible abuse or neglect. The following is a brief overview. For more detailed information, or if you suspect your loved has been a victim, call Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC immediately to speak with one of our trusted Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyers.
Physical Abuse: Physical abuse is one of the most frequent types of abuse that takes place in nursing homes. When a nursing home resident is pushed, shoved, hit, bitten, or beaten, these are all acts of physical abuse. But physical abuse can also take the form of force-feeding the senior or the inappropriate use of drugs to keep a resident quiet. If your loved one suddenly has unexplained bruises, broken bones, or other injuries, you need to act quickly. Contact an elder abuse lawyer based in Memphis, TN who will guide you to the appropriate law enforcement and government agencies that the abuse should be reported to.
Mental Abuse: Harm not only can occur with physical abuse. Nursing home residents are also often victims of mental abuse. When staff set out to insult, intimidate, or humiliate the resident, this is legally abuse because it can leave the senior suffering with anxiety, anguish, and distress. Signs of emotional abuse includes the senior becoming non-responsive or withdrawn.
Sexual Abuse: Tragically, sexual abuse continues to be a frequent occurrence in many nursing homes across the country. When a resident is the victim of non-consensual sexual contact, our Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer stresses the importance of reporting the abuse immediately to the proper authorities.
Neglect: Nursing home residents can also be victims of neglect, too. When staff fails to fulfill their duties to the resident, like providing food, medication, personal hygiene, and more, the resident can suffer serious injury. Signs of neglect are bedsores, poor hygiene, dehydration, and malnutrition.
Let a Memphis, TN Elder Abuse Lawyer Help
If your elderly loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, contact a Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer to find out what legal recourse your family may have. Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC aggressively advocates for victims and their families and has helped many nursing home abuse victims receive compensation for their injuries, as well as hold the perpetrators who committed the abuse responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can be done if I suspect abuse is being committed against my elder family member while they are in a nursing home?
If you suspect abuse is being committed against anyone in a Tennessee nursing home or assisted living facility you should consider contacting an elder abuse lawyer Memphis, TN area families rely on to provide an exceptional level of legal service. An experienced lawyer will be able to initiate conversations with the facility where the alleged abuse occurred and also provide advice on the best course of action for your unique situation.
What are common signs that abuse is occurring in a nursing home?
Signs of abuse may become evident either physically or emotionally.
- Physical Abuse – Bruises, pressure marks, sores, broken bones, abrasions, and even burns. Sexual abuse may also occur in nursing homes. Sexual abuse may have been committed if bruises or injuries are evident in the genital area and may become evident if the abused person has abnormal difficulties moving or sitting.
- Emotional Abuse – may cause a nursing home resident to withdraw from daily activities. They may also physically or verbally demonstrate signs of anxiety, depression, general uneasiness, or other out-of-the-ordinary behaviors.
- Neglect – also constitutes abuse and becomes apparent if the person has bedsores, unattended needs, unexpected or abnormal weight loss, and poor hygiene.
- Financially – physically or cognitively impaired elders in nursing home residents may be financially exploited by their caretakers. Suspicious purchases, failure to pay bills, strange behaviors may indicate that they are being taken advantage of financially.
What may happen after filing a complaint with adult protective services?
Given that APS rules that your case demonstrates violations of state laws pertaining to elder abuse, they should assign a caseworker that will initiate a formal investigation. Some cases may require immediate intervention, in which case APS should direct you regarding the appropriate services and law enforcement required for your unique case. Speak with your Memphis elder abuse lawyer about how this action may pertain to your situation.
APS was established to help protect the safety and well-being of older adults and the disabled. The organization is warranted to intervene in a wide range of conflicts that arise through the care of the elderly and disabled older adults.
- Taking and addressing reports of adult abuse
- Intervening when exploitation or neglect is suspected
- Investigating reports of abuse
- Case administration
- Providing supportive services
Who are the most likely abusers of elderly people?
Abuse is most commonly committed by those who are closest to the elder person, those that they trust the most, regardless of sex, age, or socioeconomic status. In a long term care setting, the abusers are most commonly the caretakers who spend the most time tending to basic needs.
Abusers may also be scammers and con artists who intentionally target elderly and disabled older adults. Scammers commit abuse through fake contests, impersonation or family or officials, and even through online platforms.
How can I help prevent elder abuse from happening in the first place?
You can help prevent abuse by being well-informed and prepared to take action if abuse is suspected. If you have reasonable suspicion that abuse has been committed against a family member that is in long-term care, consider contacting a Memphis, TN elder abuse lawyer from Darrell Castle & Associates to discuss your suspicions and learn what your options are.
A Nursing Home Lawyer Here to Help You
Putting an elder who cared for you into an assisted living facility or nursing home can be a gut-wrenching decision. And when you’ve made such a difficult choice, you want to believe that they’ll be in safe hands.
Learning that your elderly loved one has been neglected or abused in the facility that should have been taking care of them is devastating. You only wanted the best for them, and now you have found out that they have been injured.
These cases are all too common. At least 10 million senior citizens are victims of elder abuse or neglect every year. However, that is a conservative estimate. Many more cases are likely unreported, due to fear of retaliation or the loss of independence. All too often elders are sitting with their pain in silence.
Elder abuse takes many forms. It does not always look like we assume it would. It can be physical, psychological, or financial. It can take the form of pressure ulcers or dehydration.
Here are the primary types of abuse against elders:
- Physical abuse: hitting, kicking, pushing, slapping, or burning
- Emotional or psychological abuse: verbal or nonverbal behavior that inflicts fear, anguish, or distress.
- Neglect: a caregiver’s failure to provide for an older adult’s fundamental needs, including food, water, hygiene, and medical care
- Financial: Illegally or inappropriately using an elder’s money or assets
No matter the form, it is downright cruel and unacceptable, and naturally, if this happens to your loved one, you deserve justice. We at Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC sympathize with your discovery and would like you to know that we are not okay with nursing home abuse of any form. When we handle these types of claims, we utilize all of our resources to ensure we build a strong case. Our goal is not only to recover monetary damages for the elder’s losses, but also to ensure this behavior will not happen again. If you’re looking for a tenacious, aggressive elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN who won’t settle for anything less, call Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC.
Do you recognize any of the following signs of nursing home abuse?
Nursing home abuse comes in many forms and may exhibit a number of different signs. Some are more obvious than others which is why it’s important to pay close attention to your elder, their behaviors, the staff, and the environment during any of your visits. If you notice any of the following, talking with an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN might be a good idea.
- Bruises
- Burns
- Restraint marks
- Cuts or abrasions
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Sudden development of STDs
- Infections
- Broken bones
- Overly agitated
- Poor hygiene
- Isolated or withdrawn
- Excessive rocking
- Excessive crying
- Uncommunicative
- Appearing “odd” when staff or certain patients are around
- Reluctant to speak when staff are around
- Being unable to get any privacy with the elder
- Unexplained death
- Missing money or items
Whether you recognize one or many of these signs, please understand that there may be a terrible situation going on and you should take a moment to learn about what steps you should take. Reach out to an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN today.
What you should know about pressure ulcers
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are an increasingly common occurrence at nursing homes. According to recent studies, 1 in 10 nursing home residents will develop bedsore throughout their time in a facility.
They are the result of prolonged pressure on the skin. Bony areas are particularly vulnerable. The risk factors for pressure ulcers include:
- Aging
- Limited mobility
- Poor nutrition
- Dehydration
- And more
If you suspect that an elder in your life has developed pressure ulcers due to the conditions at their assisted living facility, call an elder abuse lawyer Memphis TN trusts.
What you should know about financial abuse
Seniors are uniquely at risk for fraud and financial exploitation. Americans in their 60s or older file more fraud reports than younger Americans.
In some cases, the abuser is a family member or caregiver, which is disheartening. Another form of elder financial abuse that you should be mindful of is imposter scams. In these, the abusers claim to be from the Social Security Administration or the IRS — sometimes even a “grandchild” in need of money, which is often targeted to seniors with decreased cognitive functioning. They reach out to elders over the phone or online.
Take these precautions to ensure your loved one’s safety
- Stay connected and close to your loved one. Isolated elders may experience depression and are often more vulnerable to neglect or abuse. It is harder to spot the signs as well — if you do not see your elder frequently enough, you won’t be able to help them. Keep in touch and be on the lookout for any changes in their demeanor.
- Encourage them to stay active. Becoming less active increases a senior’s risk for abuse. Encourage them to stay connected to community activities, such as religious services.
- Remain in the know about their finances. Financial exploitation is as harmful as any other form of abuse. It is also one of the fastest-growing. Elders should be in control of their finances even if they need to lean on a trusted relative or friend for support. Be wary of anyone in the elder’s life — caregivers or friends alike — who suddenly needs financial help.
- Support overwhelmed caregivers. Understaffing at a nursing home is a leading cause of abuse or neglect. Communicate with your elder’s caregiver. Listen to their experience and keep an open dialogue.
How a nursing home lawyer can help you
If it is found that your elderly loved one is being abused or neglected, a nursing home lawyer may proceed by filing a claim or lawsuit. This involves a process of investigation, a gathering of evidence, and more. The elder’s medical records and witness testimony might also be referred to. With this information, a case can be built and presented to the applicable parties. While this is going on, an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN can help you to understand what to expect and answer any questions you might have along the way.
If you have immediate concerns about the safety and wellbeing of your elderly loved one, or if you are worried about retaliation by staff or another patient, please make sure a lawyer knows so that advice on how to keep them safe can be provided. Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC would be glad to assist clients in helping them find a solution.
Are you ready to explore your rights and legal options?
If you would like to find out how you can recover compensation for an elderly person’s medical care, pain, suffering, and other losses, please call an elder abuse lawyer in Memphis, TN at Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC as soon as possible.
Contact our office today to set up a free and confidential consultation with one of our trusted and experienced elder abuse lawyers in Memphis, TN.