Reporting Nursing Home Abuse

In the United States, nursing home abuse/neglect has become a serious epidemic, but what’s even more troubling is that while we’re becoming more aware of this, there are still far too many cases that go unreported. The Nursing Home Abuse Guide estimates that there are over 3.2 million nursing home residents in the U.S. and as much as 40% of the population will eventually live in a nursing home, but the rate of abuse is the true cause for concern: in one survey, a shocking 44% of nursing home residents have reported abuse or neglect during their stays.

If you suspect that a loved one has been a victim of abuse/neglect in a nursing home, the first important step, if possible, is to remove them from the situation. In addition to reporting the abuse to authorities, it’s important that you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your loved one’s rights are protected and they have a fair chance of being compensated for the harm done to them. It’s also important that you never delay reporting this type of abuse, as there is a statute of limitations for these injury claims to be filed: in Illinois, a claim for nursing home abuse must be filed within two (2) years of the date the injury was discovered or “reasonably should have been discovered,” or within four (4) years of the date the injury was sustained.

Nursing home abuse can go beyond just physical abuse and cuts or bruises, and may also include emotional/psychological abuse, neglect, or even financial exploitation. It’s helpful to be familiar with some common signs of this abuse, which include sudden changes in personality or behavior, fear or hostility to particular staff members, irregular financial decisions, and physical evidence of abuse such as cuts, bruises, or torn clothing.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or negligence, contact 844 See Mike, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.