Placing a loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility comes with the hope and expectation that they will receive compassionate and proper care. Sadly, elder abuse and neglect are far too common, causing deep emotional distress and serious physical harm.
This abuse may take many forms—physical violence, emotional manipulation, financial exploitation, or neglect—all of which rob elderly individuals of their dignity, security, and well-being.
Our elders deserve respect, kindness, and safety, and it is our responsibility to remain vigilant and take action to protect them from such injustice. That’s where a Baltimore nursing home abuse lawyer comes in.
When abuse occurs, personal injury claims can hold nursing homes accountable and may prevent further mistreatment. If you or a loved one were abused at a nursing home/facility, you can count on a Baltimore personal injury lawyer from The Bishop Law Group to help you with your case. We know the law and can help you proceed.
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An experienced Baltimore nursing home abuse lawyer can help victims and families seek justice and compensation for harm suffered. Reach out to a compassionate attorney to begin your case.
For a free legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer serving Baltimore, call (410) 390-3101
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse typically falls into four main categories:
Abuse
Abuse refers to deliberate actions that cause harm, pain, or mental anguish, including:
- Assault and battery
- Sexual abuse
- Unreasonable confinement or imprisonment
- Improper use of restraints
Neglect
Neglect differs from abuse as it involves failing to meet a resident’s basic needs without malicious intent. Examples include:
- Failing to provide food, water, or hygiene
- Allowing bed sores or infections to develop
- Ignoring medical conditions that require prompt attention
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare providers fail to deliver standard care. Common examples include:
- Medication errors
- Misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose
- Surgical mistakes
Financial Exploitation
Elderly residents may face financial abuse, such as unauthorized use of their funds, exploitation of assets, or coercion into signing financial documents.
Baltimore Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me (410) 390-3101
Who Regulates Maryland Nursing Homes?
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene makes sure nursing homes follow state rules. These rules, outlined in the Code of Maryland Regulations, require nursing homes to have policies to stop abuse and neglect.
If a nursing home fails to follow these rules, it could face lawsuits for not protecting its residents.
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Duty of Care in Nursing Homes
Nursing homes in Maryland are required to provide proper care to their residents. This responsibility is called a legal duty of care and is often reviewed by experts.
Nurses, administrators, or medical professionals check if the facility is meeting its duty to provide food, hygiene, medical care, and supervision. When these needs are not met, it may be considered a violation.
Expert witnesses are important in proving if a nursing home failed in its duty of care. They use state and federal rules, industry guidelines, and staffing requirements to determine if the care provided was acceptable.
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Factors Experts Consider
To evaluate care provided, experts examine elements such as:
- Personalized care plans are designed to prevent decline and promote independence in activities like eating, bathing, and communication
- Adequate staffing levels to meet residents’ needs
- Timely prevention and treatment of pressure sores
By reviewing clinical records and practices, experts determine whether the nursing home upheld its legal responsibilities.
How to Address Suspected Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect abuse or neglect, act quickly to protect your loved one. Follow these steps:
1. Stay Calm and Gather Evidence
- Document the date, time, and specifics of suspected abuse.
- Take photos or videos of visible injuries or signs of neglect.
- Record names and titles of staff involved.
2. Speak With Nursing Home Staff
Schedule a meeting to discuss concerns with the administration. Be specific about incidents and ask about their response plans to address and prevent issues.
3. Talk Privately With Your Loved One
Ask open-ended questions in a safe, private setting to understand their experience. Reassure them of your support.
4. Keep Detailed Records
Maintain thorough documentation of incidents, conversations, evidence, and timelines.
5. Report Abuse
Contact relevant authorities:
- Local Law Enforcement: Dial 911 or use the non-emergency number.
- Maryland Department of Aging: Call 410-767-1100.
- National Center on Elder Abuse: Reach them at 1-800-677-1116.
Statistics
- Prevalence of Abuse: Nearly 16% of nursing home residents report experiencing abuse.
- Types of Abuse: Physical abuse is the most common form, followed by neglect and psychological abuse.
- Impact on Residents with Dementia: Up to 50% of individuals with dementia experience some form of abuse.
- Health Violations: In 2023, U.S. nursing homes received over 94,000 health citations, with 8.1% related to abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Financial Exploitation: Female residents and those with cognitive impairments are particularly vulnerable to financial abuse.
Talk With a Baltimore Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
If you suspect one of your loved ones has suffered abuse or neglect in a nursing home, don’t hesitate to contact The Bishop Law Group today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.
Reach out to us online or call to speak with a member of our team.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
