What to Do When Your Family Member Experiences Nursing Home Abuse in Allegheny County
When you place a loved one in a nursing home, you expect them to receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect remain a serious problem, even in Allegheny County. Discovering that your family member has been mistreated can be devastating, but it is crucial to act quickly to protect their safety and hold the responsible parties accountable. At Frank Walker Law, we are committed to standing up for vulnerable individuals and their families. Here is what you need to do if you suspect nursing home abuse.
1. Recognize the Signs of Abuse or Neglect
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. Common signs to watch for include:
- Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures.
- Emotional Abuse: Withdrawal, fearfulness, depression, or sudden personality changes.
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, bedsores, dehydration, malnutrition, or unsafe living conditions.
- Financial Exploitation: Unexplained withdrawals, missing belongings, or sudden changes to financial documents.
If you notice any of these signs, trust your instincts and investigate further.
2. Document Everything
Start keeping a detailed record of your observations and interactions. This includes:
- Photographing injuries, unsafe conditions, or signs of neglect.
- Keeping a journal of dates, times, and descriptions of incidents.
- Collecting financial records if you suspect exploitation.
- Saving copies of emails, letters, or any communication with the nursing home staff or management.
These records will be vital if you pursue legal action.
3. Report the Abuse to the Appropriate Authorities
If you suspect abuse, report it immediately to the Pennsylvania Department of Health or Adult Protective Services. You can file a complaint by calling the Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-490-8505. Reporting the abuse initiates an investigation and ensures your concerns are on record.
If your loved one is in immediate danger, call 911 to ensure their safety.
4. Remove Your Loved One from the Dangerous Situation
If it is safe and feasible, consider relocating your loved one to another facility or alternative care arrangement. Ensure that their new environment is thoroughly vetted to prevent further harm. The safety and well-being of your family member should be your top priority.
5. Consult an Experienced Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Nursing home abuse cases are complex, often involving medical records, facility policies, and state regulations. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the abuse and gather evidence.
- Determine who is liable, including staff members, administrators, or the facility itself.
- Advocate for your family member’s rights.
- Pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
At Frank Walker Law, we have extensive experience handling nursing home abuse cases in Allegheny County. We are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the justice your family deserves.
6. Hold the Nursing Home Accountable
Pursuing legal action not only helps your family member but also holds negligent facilities accountable, potentially preventing future abuse. Nursing homes have a duty to provide quality care, and they must answer for any harm caused by their negligence or misconduct.
7. Seek Support for Your Family Member
Experiencing abuse can take a significant emotional and psychological toll. Ensure that your loved one has access to counseling or therapy to help them recover. Surround them with support from family and friends to rebuild their sense of safety and trust.
Why Choose Frank Walker Law?
At Frank Walker Law, we understand the anger and heartbreak that come with discovering nursing home abuse. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of vulnerable individuals and holding negligent parties accountable. As one of Allegheny County’s most trusted personal injury attorneys, Frank Walker brings compassion, experience, and an unwavering commitment to achieving justice for your family.
If your family member has experienced nursing home abuse, don’t wait to take action. Contact Frank Walker Law today for a free consultation. Let us stand by your side and help you protect your loved one’s future.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Frank Walker Law or call us at (412) 532-6805.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.