Holding Nursing Homes Accountable for Elder Abuse in Gettysburg

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, with its rich history and charming atmosphere, is a place many seniors choose to call home. However, for some residing in nursing homes, this golden age can be tarnished by the unthinkable: elder abuse.

Elder abuse is a serious and often hidden crime, leaving our most vulnerable citizens feeling helpless and alone. If you suspect a loved one is experiencing abuse in a Gettysburg nursing home, it’s important to understand your rights and take action.

Recognizing the signs of elder abuse

Per the CDC, elder abuse is “an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. An older adult is someone aged 60 or older. The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or other trusted person.”

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. Here are some red flags to be aware of:

• Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or broken bones; malnutrition; dehydration; poor hygiene.
• Emotional signs: Depression, anxiety, withdrawal from social interaction; fearfulness or reluctance to speak freely; sudden changes in personality or behavior.
• Sexual signs: Unexplained sexually transmitted infections (STIs); torn or bloody clothing; inappropriate touching or behavior by staff.
• Financial signs: Missing personal belongings or money; sudden changes in financial documents or wills; unexplained bank account activity.
• Neglect signs: Bedsores, dehydration, malnutrition; unsanitary living conditions; lack of medical attention.

Legal options for holding Gettysburg nursing homes accountable

If you suspect your loved one is being abused, here’s what you can do:

• Document everything: Keep detailed notes of your observations, including dates, times, and witnesses. Take pictures of any injuries or unsanitary conditions.
• Report the abuse: Report the abuse to the nursing home administrator, state licensing agency, and Adult Protective Services (APS).
• Seek legal counsel: An experienced personal injury lawyer specializing in elder abuse can investigate the situation, gather evidence, and fight for your loved one’s rights. Legal options may include:
  • Filing a civil lawsuit: A lawsuit can seek compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering, medical expenses, and other damages. We can help you with this.
  • Seeking guardianship: If your loved one is unable to make their own decisions, our lawyers can help you obtain legal guardianship to protect their best interests.
  • Reporting criminal charges: In cases of severe abuse, we may recommend pursuing criminal charges against the perpetrator.

Resources available in Gettysburg for victims of nursing home abuse

Here are some resources in Gettysburg that can offer you support and guidance:

• Adams County Office of Aging: (717) 334-9296 – Provides services and resources for seniors, including information on elder abuse prevention and reporting.
• Pennsylvania Department of Aging – Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-490-8505 – Offers 24/7 confidential reporting of suspected elder abuse.

Working with a Gettysburg personal injury lawyer for elder abuse cases

At KBG Injury Law, our nursing home abuse attorneys have decades of experience in elder abuse cases and can be powerful advocates for your loved one. We can help work through the legal complexities of your case, handle communication with the nursing home and authorities, and build a strong case for compensation.

Here’s what you can expect when working with our lawyers on your elder abuse case:

• Free consultation: We offer free consultations to discuss your case and assess your options.
• Investigation and evidence gathering: We gather evidence, including medical records, witness testimonies, and nursing home documents.
• Negotiation and settlement: We work to negotiate a fair settlement with the nursing home to avoid a lengthy court case.
• Trial representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we represent you in court.

While online resources do offer valuable information, working with our local Gettysburg lawyers provides several advantages:

• Familiarity with local laws and courts: Because we are familiar with Pennsylvania elder abuse laws and Gettysburg court procedures, we can navigate the legal system more efficiently.
• Relationships with local resources: Our lawyers have established relationships with social service agencies, medical professionals, and elder care advocates, which can be crucial in building your case.
• Personalized attention and understanding: Our attorneys provide personalized attention to your case and understand the unique needs and concerns of your loved one.

Elder abuse is a terrible crime that steals the dignity and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens. By recognizing the signs, taking action, and seeking legal support, you can help ensure the safety and justice your loved one deserves.

How can I prevent elder abuse?

While legal action is essential after any abuse occurs, prevention is always the best defense. Here are some proactive measures you can take to protect your loved one:

• Regular visits: Schedule regular visits to the nursing home to observe your loved one’s physical and emotional well-being.
• Open communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your loved one, encouraging them to share any concerns they might have.
• Reviewing financial statements: Regularly review your loved one’s financial statements for any suspicious activity.
• Building relationships with staff: Develop positive relationships with the nursing home staff and be an advocate for your loved one’s needs.
• Staying informed: Educate yourself about elder abuse and its indicators to be vigilant in your loved one’s care.

By working with a skilled Gettysburg nursing home abuse attorney, utilizing available resources, and taking preventative measures, you can empower yourself and your loved one to help fight elder abuse. Remember:

• You have a right to quality care: Nursing homes have a legal obligation to provide residents with a safe and healthy environment.
• Your voice matters: Don’t be afraid to speak up if you suspect something is wrong.
• Justice is possible: Legal action can hold negligent parties accountable and secure compensation for your loved one.

Don’t let elder abuse go unanswered. If you suspect your loved one is being mistreated in a Gettysburg nursing home, contact KBG Injury Law today for a free consultation. Our experienced elder abuse lawyers are passionate about protecting seniors and will fight tirelessly to hold negligent facilities accountable and secure the compensation your loved one deserves. To schedule a consultation with a dedicated attorney, just call our offices or fill out our contact form. We maintain offices in York, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Hanover, and Gettysburg for your convenience.