Annapolis, MD Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Nursing Home Neglect Attorney Serving Annapolis, Maryland
As our population ages, many older people reside in nursing homes where they can receive care, compassion, and support. Unfortunately, cases of abuse, including physical, financial, and sexual abuse, continue to surface in assisted living facilities in Annapolis, Maryland and other nearby areas. Abuse and neglect can have devastating effects on elderly nursing home residents, and families may need to take steps to address these issues and make sure their loved ones' interests are protected.
At Serafini Law, we understand how horrific it can be for a family to hear that a loved one may be experiencing financial abuse, sexual abuse, or other forms of abuse or neglect. When families work with Attorney A.J. Serafini, they can feel confident that they have a legal advocate who is committed to achieving the best possible outcome for their loved ones. Our firm will leave no stone unturned in the relentless pursuit of justice. Contact Serafini Law today to get help with issues related to nursing home neglect or abuse.
Financial Abuse at Maryland Nursing Home Facilities
Financial abuse in nursing homes occurs when people exploit an elderly resident's financial resources or assets without consent. This can involve various manipulative strategies, such as coercion, deception, or taking advantage of a resident's cognitive difficulties.
Financial abuse can take many forms. Here are a few examples:
- Unexplained withdrawals - Residents or their family members may notice large sums of money missing from their bank accounts, often without a clear explanation.
- Theft of personal assets- Caregivers or staff members might take a resident's personal belongings, such as jewelry or other valuables. These thefts may occur when residents are incapacitated.
- Manipulation of legal documents - Caregivers may pressure residents into changing their wills or designating them as beneficiaries. For example, a nursing home employee might try to convince a resident to change their financial plans, which could lead to significant losses.
- Fraudulent transactions - Some caregivers may use an elderly person's credit cards, online banking accounts, or checks without authorization. This can lead to financial strain for the nursing home resident and their family.
The repercussions of financial abuse are profound, and a person may be affected both economically and emotionally. Victims may feel violated and betrayed by those they once trusted. With the help of our attorney, families can make sure these issues will be addressed correctly and that a person will be protected against harm.
Sexual Abuse at Maryland Nursing Home Facilities
Sexual abuse in nursing homes is an unspeakable act in which a resident may be subjected to sexually inappropriate behavior against their will. These violations can come from staff members, other residents, or visitors, and they often go unreported due to shame, fear, confusion, or some combination of these issues that affect the victim.
Nursing home residents may experience sexual abuse such as:
- Unwanted touching - Incidents where caregivers or staff members touch residents inappropriately, often when claiming that they are actually providing medical care, can occur in nursing home facilities.
- Sexual coercion- Residents might be manipulated into engaging in sexual acts through threats, intimidation, or by taking advantage of their cognitive decline. For instance, a caregiver might threaten to withhold care unless the resident complies with their sexual demands.
- Exposure to pornography or sexual content - In some cases, staff members may expose residents to sexually explicit material without their consent. This can create an environment of fear and discomfort.
- Rape or sexual assault- In the most severe instances, elderly residents may be forced to engage in sexual intercourse or sexual conduct against their will. This can lead to significant psychological and physical injuries.
The stigma associated with sexual abuse can prevent victims from coming forward. Nursing home residents may feel isolated. In some cases, victims may not understand that they have been affected by abuse due to cognitive impairments or a lack of awareness about their rights. Our attorney can help address these forms of abuse and ensure that a nursing home resident's rights are protected.
Consequences of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
When nursing home residents experience physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse, or when they suffer harm due to neglect, they can be affected in many ways, including:
- Emotional trauma - Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of trust - Residents might withdraw from relationships, either with caregivers or other residents, due to feelings of betrayal.
- Decreased quality of life - Emotional and psychological strain can lead to a decline in a person's overall health and well-being.
- Financial implications for families - The losses a family may experience due to abuse or neglect can put them in difficult situations.
Contact Our Annapolis Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorney
Neglect and abuse within Annapolis nursing homes can affect not only the victims, but their families and communities as well. Serafini Law stands by victims and their families in these difficult situations, working to address negligence and recover financial compensation. Call 240-744-1600 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary consultation and get legal help with these issues.