Despite widespread awareness of the problem, nursing home neglect and abuse continue to harm vulnerable residents. Is your family member at risk?
Understanding who may face a higher risk can help you take preventive measures to ensure your own care or that of a loved one. It may also guide you in seeking a legal remedy for the facility’s abuse or neglect under California law.
1. Elderly residents
The elderly are often particularly vulnerable to abuse and neglect due to their age-related physical and cognitive decline.
As people age, they may become more dependent on caregivers for daily activities, making them easy targets for neglect or mistreatment. Additionally, elderly individuals may have a diminished capacity to report abuse or neglect, further increasing their risk.
2. Those in poor health
Long-term care residents with declining physical or mental health may be at a heightened risk of abuse and neglect.
These individuals often require extensive care and attention, which can lead to caregiver burnout and, unfortunately, mistreatment. Conditions such as dementia or mobility issues can make it difficult for these residents to communicate their needs or report any mistreatment they experience.
3. Aggressive or combative residents
Resident aggression can serve as a trigger for mistreatment in some situations.
Caregivers may become frustrated or overwhelmed when dealing with challenging behavior, leading to inappropriate responses or even retaliation. Combative residents might also be less likely to receive the patience and understanding they need, increasing the likelihood of neglect or abuse.
Now that you understand the risk factors, do you suspect you or a loved one is suffering from abuse or neglect in a long-term care facility? If so, consider seeking a legal opinion from an experienced California representative.
