Baltimore Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Attorney for Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse in Baltimore, MD

As loved ones age, families will want to ensure that they receive the care and protection they deserve. Nursing homes often provide the necessary care in these situations. Sadly, cases of nursing home neglect and abuse can occur, causing significant harm to vulnerable residents. For families who have been affected by these issues, it is crucial to understand the legal avenues available to protect a loved one's well-being and hold a negligent facility responsible for the harm done.

At Serafini Law, we work to help families navigate difficult situations involving nursing home abuse and neglect. Regardless of what kind of mistreatment an older person has suffered at a nursing home facility, we are committed to aggressively protecting the rights and interests of injury victims and their families.

Defining Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

While both nursing home abuse and neglect are grave concerns, they may involve different concerns, and they can have distinct impacts on residents.

Nursing Home Abuse

Abuse generally involves intentional harm inflicted upon a nursing home resident. This may include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse caused by caregivers or staff members, as well as harm inflicted by other patients due to a lack of supervision or a failure to protect a person's safety. Signs of abuse may include:

• Unexplained injuries or bruising.
• Sudden withdrawal from social interactions.
• Fearfulness or agitation around certain staff members.
• Changes in mood or behavior.

Nursing Home Neglect

When a nursing home does not meet the proper standards and fails to provide the necessary care, treatment, and supervision, a resident may suffer serious harm. They may experience a deterioration of health conditions or other issues that affect their well-being. Nursing home neglect can take many forms, including:

• Physical neglect - This can include not providing necessary food, water, medicine, or personal hygiene.
• Emotional neglect - This can consist of failing to offer companionship and social interaction.
• Medical neglect - This may involve ignoring a person's medical needs or delaying treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Neglect and Abuse in Nursing Home Settings

To effectively address nursing home neglect and abuse, it is essential to be aware of the warning signs. Families should look out for:

• Unexplainable weight loss or malnutrition
• Dirty or messy living conditions
• Bedsores or infections
• Isolation or lack of medical care
• Frequent incidents of crying or lashing out

These symptoms can serve as major red flags indicating that mistreatment is taking place in the nursing home.

Legal Protections for Nursing Home Residents in Maryland

In Maryland, residents of nursing homes are protected by various laws designed to ensure their safety and dignity. Some key legal aspects include:

• Maryland's nursing home resident rights - The law guarantees residents the right to a safe and humane living environment, among other protections.
• Reporting requirements - Facilities must report any suspected cases of neglect or abuse to authorities.
• Legal recourse - Victims of nursing home abuse or neglect may take legal action against the facility or individual caregivers.

Understanding these protections can empower families to advocate for their loved ones and seek justice when needed.

Steps You Should Take if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

If you have reason to believe that your loved one is being mistreated in their nursing home, here are some steps to consider:

• Document the evidence - Keep detailed records of any signs that may indicate abuse or neglect.
• Report the abuse - Notify the nursing home management and local authorities.
• Speak to staff - Engage directly with nursing home staff to express concerns and seek explanations.
• Consult with a legal professional - Contact our attorney to learn about your legal options for addressing the harm your loved one has suffered.

Contact Our Baltimore, Maryland Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Attorney

When neglect or abuse at a nursing home has caused your loved one to suffer harm, it is crucial to take prompt action. Contact the skilled attorney at Serafini Law to learn how we can advocate for your loved one's rights and well-being. We have over a decade of experience, and we are available to assist you 24/7. Call our office at 240-744-1600 to schedule a free consultation.