Many families place their elder relatives in the care of nursing homes and assisted living facilities; however, sometimes these facilities breach the trust that the families have placed in them.  When a nursing home mistreats or neglects an elderly patient, the crime of elder abuse has occurred.  This crime comes in a number of different forms:

• physical or sexual abuse;
• psychological or emotional abuse;
• financial abuse; and
• abandonment.

Many elderly are particularly vulnerable because they depend on staff members to meet their basic needs.  Because some elderly patients may feel intimidated or afraid to report mistreatment, family members and friends should be aware of the common indicators of elder abuse:

• bruises and cuts;
• bed sores;
• weight loss;
• signs of restraint; and
• sudden changes in behavior.

It does not matter whether elder abuse or neglect is unintentional. When such abuse occurs, both the caregiver and the nursing home facility could be held responsible for any injuries.

If you are concerned that an elderly relative or friend is the victim of elder abuse in a nursing home or other care facility, and you live in the New York Metropolitan area, we'd like to hear from you. Contact us online or call us at 718.297.1000 for a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.