Uncovering Elder Abuse in Atlanta, GA: Recognizing Signs and Seeking Justice

In Atlanta, Georgia, over 35,000 citizens currently call nursing homes their residence. While many receive commendable care, a disturbing reality persists – some are subjected to abuse or neglect. Understanding the different types of elder abuse and knowing when to contact a Georgia nursing home abuse lawyer is crucial in safeguarding the well-being of our vulnerable senior citizens.

Common Forms of Nursing Home Abuse

Negligence

Medical neglect occurs when nursing home staff fails to provide adequate care, including neglecting to provide food, medicine, or hygiene services. Administering incorrect medications or incorrect dosages also falls under medical neglect.

Physical Abuse and Assault

Shockingly, a study by Michigan State University suggests that up to 24.3 percent of nursing home residents may have experienced physical abuse. This includes violent acts such as punching, kicking, and choking, significantly elevating the risk of mortality for the victims.

Mental or Emotional Abuse

Residents may endure deep psychological wounds, post-traumatic stress, and depression due to mental or emotional abuse. This can include name-calling, racial slurs, limiting visits, threatening behavior, and insulting residents based on their looks or medical conditions.

Sexual Abuse

Vulnerable residents may fall prey to sexual predators within nursing homes, experiencing unwanted groping, touching, or even sexual assault. The physical and emotional toll of such abuse can leave lasting scars on senior citizens.

Financial Abuse

Exploiting relationships with patients, some caregivers attempt to gain control over their finances. Individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia are particularly vulnerable to financial abuse, as caregivers may manipulate them into adding names to accounts or naming them as beneficiaries.

Fraud and Identity Theft

Nursing home residents may become victims of fraud or identity theft, with criminals stealing sensitive information for personal gain. This can lead to significant financial damage, especially for those who lack the resources to rectify credit or financial history issues.

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Recognizing the signs of abuse is crucial for prompt intervention

1. Unexplained injuries or bruises
2. Malnutrition or sudden weight loss
3. Drastic behavioral changes
4. Fearful reactions to specific staff members
5. Ulcers or bed sores
6. Repeated requests to be moved to another facility
7. Caregivers appearing to lurk or eavesdrop
8. Staff members showing undue interest in obtaining personal information

Why Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Atlanta?

When facing the daunting task of investigating a nursing home abuse claim, seeking legal guidance is essential. At Westmoreland, Patterson, Moseley & Hinson, our attorneys possess the expertise to navigate the complexities of elder abuse cases, helping you gather evidence and build a compelling case. We are familiar with the tactics used by nursing home staff to cover up abuse, ensuring that your pursuit of justice is thorough and effective.

When to Contact a Lawyer?

Acting swiftly is imperative when elder abuse is suspected. Contacting a Georgia nursing home abuse lawyer at the earliest indication of abuse increases the likelihood of preserving crucial evidence before it can be altered or destroyed by nursing home staff. If attempts to resolve the issue independently prove futile, having legal representation signals to the nursing home that you are prepared to take decisive action.