In nursing homes and long-term care facilities, abuse and neglect are alarmingly prevalent issues, with approximately two-thirds of staff admitting to having committed some form of abuse in the past year.
This abuse, which can include physical, psychological, financial, and even sexual harm, is a grave violation of the trust placed in caregivers and can have severe physical and psychological consequences for the elderly.
If you or a loved one has suffered from nursing home abuse in New Orleans, finding experienced legal representation is important to protect your rights. At Dudley DeBosier, our team of skilled attorneys can help you with your nursing home abuse case.
We understand the devastating impact that nursing home abuse can have on individuals and their families, and we are here to help you navigate this difficult time.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose Dudley DeBosier for Your Nursing Home Abuse Case
When it comes to protecting your loved ones from the horrors of nursing home abuse and neglect, Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers stands out as a firm you can trust. With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, including helping over 58,000 clients recover more than $1.2 billion in compensation, our team is dedicated to holding negligent nursing homes accountable.
At Dudley DeBosier, we believe that every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your loved one’s story. We know that nursing home abuse is not just a legal issue; it’s a deeply personal one that affects families in profound ways. Our team of nearly 200 professionals is committed to treating your case with the seriousness it deserves, offering personalized, compassionate representation.
Serving clients throughout Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Lafayette, Houma, New Orleans, and Shreveport, we approach every case with the mindset that we’re fighting for family. That’s why we’re prepared to stand up to powerful nursing home corporations and their insurers, whether through negotiation or taking the case to trial, to ensure that your loved one receives the justice and compensation they deserve.
When you choose Dudley DeBosier for your nursing home abuse case, you’re choosing a firm that values names more than numbers—a firm that will be with you every step of the way, relentlessly pursuing the best possible outcome for your family.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse is critical for ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones. If you suspect that a family member may be suffering from abuse or neglect in a nursing home, it’s essential to act quickly. Here are some common signs to be aware of:
Unexplained Injuries or Bruises: Physical indicators like bruises, burns, fractures, or cuts are often clear signs of abuse. Any unexplained injuries or repeated instances of physical harm should be investigated immediately to determine their cause.
Sudden Changes in Behavior or Mood: Emotional and behavioral changes can be a response to abuse. If your loved one becomes withdrawn, anxious, fearful, or exhibits signs of depression, it could be a red flag. Pay close attention to any sudden or uncharacteristic shifts in their mood or behavior.
Poor Hygiene or Malnutrition: Neglect is a form of abuse that often shows up in poor personal hygiene or malnutrition. If your loved one appears unkempt, lives in unsanitary conditions, or experiences significant, unexplained weight loss, it may indicate that they are not receiving the care they need.
Bedsores or Pressure Ulcers: Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, can develop when a person is left in the same position for too long without being moved. These are often a sign of severe neglect and inadequate care.
Unexplained Fear or Anxiety Around Certain Staff Members: If your loved one appears fearful, anxious, or upset when certain staff members are present, it could be an indication of abuse or mistreatment by those individuals.
Frequent Infections or Illnesses: A pattern of recurrent infections or untreated medical conditions can be a sign that the nursing home is failing to provide adequate medical care and attention.
Social Withdrawal or Isolation: If your loved one is being isolated from other residents, activities, or even from you, it could be a tactic used by abusers to keep their actions hidden.
Unusual Financial Transactions or Loss of Money: Financial abuse is also a concern in nursing homes. Keep an eye out for sudden, unexplained withdrawals, changes in financial documents, or missing personal belongings.
If you notice any of these signs, consult with experienced nursing home abuse lawyers who can guide you through the legal process. At Dudley DeBosier, our team is dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home abuse victims and their families. We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation your loved one deserves.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect that your loved one may be experiencing nursing home abuse or neglect, take immediate action to protect their rights and well-being. Here are three essential steps to follow:
1. Document any signs of abuse or neglect. Pay close attention to any physical, emotional, or behavioral changes in your loved one. Look for unexplained bruises, malnutrition, sudden weight loss, poor hygiene, or signs of fear and anxiety. Document these observations with photographs, videos, and written notes. This evidence will be valuable when reporting the abuse and seeking legal assistance.
2. Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities. Contact the Health Standards Section (HSS) of the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to report the suspected abuse. Reporting the abuse is crucial not only for your loved one’s safety but also to prevent others from suffering the same mistreatment.
3. Seek legal advice from our experienced attorneys. If you believe your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse, consult with a skilled and compassionate attorney who specializes in nursing home abuse cases. Our dedicated team of New Orleans nursing home abuse lawyers at Dudley DeBosier can provide you with the guidance and support you need. We will fight tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice for your loved one.
Remember, taking immediate action protects your loved one’s rights and ensures their safety. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.
Louisiana Nursing Home Residents’ Rights
In Louisiana, nursing home residents are granted specific rights to ensure their safety, dignity, and well-being. These rights are in place to protect against abuse and neglect while promoting autonomy and quality of life. Key rights include:
- Civil and Religious Liberties: Residents can freely exercise their civil and religious rights, including making personal decisions and practicing their beliefs.
- Private Communications: Residents are entitled to send and receive mail, access a phone, and have visits from family and friends without restrictions.
- Access to Representatives: Immediate access to healthcare professionals, ombudsmen, and advocacy agencies is guaranteed.
- Grievance Rights: Residents can file complaints or suggest changes without fear of retaliation.
- Financial Autonomy: Residents can manage their finances or appoint someone to do so, with transparency and regular accounting.
- Medical Information: Full disclosure of medical conditions and treatment options, including the right to refuse treatment, is required.
- Health Care and Privacy: Adequate health care and respect for privacy and confidentiality in both treatment and personal matters are fundamental rights.
- Freedom From Abuse: Residents are protected from all forms of abuse and unnecessary restraints.
- Transfer and Discharge Protections: Transfers or discharges must be justified and include proper notice and the right to appeal.
- Choice of Care Providers: Residents have the right to choose their doctor and pharmacy, and to keep personal belongings within health and safety guidelines.
- Prompt Responses: Residents are entitled to timely responses to their requests, and significant health changes must be promptly reported to them or their representatives.
These rights ensure that nursing home residents in Louisiana are treated with the respect and care they deserve. If you believe any of these rights have been violated, our team at Dudley DeBosier is here to help protect and uphold these rights.
Contact Our New Orleans Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Today
If you suspect any form of abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to advocate for your loved one’s care. Document any incidents or concerns, report them to the appropriate authorities, and get in touch with our team as soon as possible.
We have years of experience fighting for the rights of those injured in New Orleans. Let us help you and your loved one through this challenging time.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
