Abuse and Neglect from Volunteer Workers

    SCOTTSDALE, AZ, April 12, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- When you trust your loved one to a care facility, you expect that they will be treated with respect and dignity, and proper care will be taken of them at all times. Many of the employees at nursing homes are experienced medical practitioners who have been trained to deal with the unique needs of the elderly. Others have received little to no training at all and may even be at the nursing home on a volunteer basis.

Nursing home abuse and neglect of any sort is deplorable. However, when your loved one suffers abuse and neglect from improperly trained workers or volunteers, you may wonder if you have any cause for recourse. You do, and an experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorney will be able to investigate your claim, hold the responsible parties accountable, and seek justice for you and your family.

Signs of Abuse

Nursing home abuse can often be recognized based on physical symptoms. Signs of abuse include:

- Broken bones
- Bruises or cuts
- Bleeding around the genitals
- Improper medication

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), nearly three million people currently reside in nursing homes. The NCEA estimates that over half of them have suffered some form of abuse at the hands of both paid and volunteer staff. If you notice any of these signs of nursing home abuse, contacting a lawyer immediately can help protect your loved one and see that proper compensation is granted.

Signs of Neglect

Neglect may not be as easy to spot as physical or sexual abuse. However, when you know what to look for, you can notice signs of nursing home neglect before they become serious health issues for your loved one. Signs of neglect include:

- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Over or under medication
- Bed sores
- Unsanitary conditions

Both neglect and abuse can result in changes in behavior in your loved one. Common signs that someone is suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect include mood changes, severe depression, a withdrawal from the nursing home community, and aggression. If your loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can investigate the conditions of their residence and help you determine if abuse or neglect is the cause.

If you live in Arizona and suspect your loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect, please visit the website of Cullan&Cullan, M.D., J.D. for more information on your rights.

Website: http://www.stopnursinghomeabuse.org

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