Rochester Elder Abuse Lawyer
When the time comes to take care of an elderly relative, you may look to professional care. When you find someone you’re supposed to trust is abusing them, it can be devastating and heartbreaking.
No one should have to experience abuse at the hands of someone who is supposed to be caring and kind. Elder abuse is a crime and those abusing an elderly individual should be held accountable.
Stop these individuals from doing the same to others in the future, and receive compensation for the suffering your loved one has been through. The lawyers at Brown Chiari LLP are ready to help when you’re ready to discuss your case with a Rochester elder abuse lawyer.
What Counts as Elder Abuse in New York?
Elder abuse can come in a variety of forms and can happen in almost any setting. Sadly, the abuse is done under someone who should be trusted with the elderly individual.
Nursing homes see the largest incidence of elder abuse, whether it is physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse. Nursing homes are sometimes understaffed or undertrained, leading to the negligence of care in these individuals.
Caretakers that work inside the home have access to the elderly patient’s items and care. These caregivers may potentially be abusive, especially if the company hiring them acted negligently during the hiring process.
Financial exploitation may also happen in Rochester elder abuse claims. Having someone in charge of their assets can lead to being vulnerable in this area. Usually, those closest to the elders are the ones to exploit them financially.
Signs of Neglect and Abuse of Rochester Elders
There are many signs that your loved one is being neglected or abused by their caregiver. Being aware of these signs can help you stop the abuse before it goes any further.
- Bedsores
- Bone fractures
- Sexual abuse
- Falls
- Financial losses
- Malnutrition
- Medication errors
- Sudden and unusual behavior changes
- Other unexplained illnesses and injuries
- Unexpected death
If you suspect that your loved one may be being abused, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Get your loved one in a safe place with the proper medical care and contact a Rochester law office that can do further investigative work.
When is a Rochester Facility Liable for Elder Abuse?
A standard of care is expected to be upheld by the staff in Rochester nursing home facilities. When they fail to do this, they may be considered negligent. When this is found, they are then liable for any damages that result from this negligent behavior.
If you notice that the facility doesn’t provide this standard of care, you may have a claim. Here are some things to consider when discussing a Rochester elder abuse claim.
Negligent Hiring Practices
When the facility is negligent in hiring new employees, they may hire someone questionable. They are required to maintain qualified, professional staff. If they fail to do the background checks or neglect to listen to complaints about these employees, they may be held liable.
When the facility is understaffed and the employees are failing to provide the level of care required, the facility may be to blame. This leaves the residents at risk for further injury.
When the employees are not adequately trained, they may not be doing everything that needs to be done or doing it improperly. This also puts the residents at risk. If the staff isn’t qualified or trained to provide this level of care, the facility is held responsible.
Privacy and Adequate Care
If there are third parties involved or visiting the facility, the facility can be held liable if something happens. This is because they are responsible for any third parties entering the facility and providing any level of care to the residents.
All residents in care facilities are entitled to dignity, autonomy, and privacy within their areas. If these rights are violated by any of the staff, this is against the law and the facility may be held liable for the damages.
Medical Errors
Medication errors can be fatal for anyone, especially the elderly who trust someone to provide the correct medications and care. Your loved one’s health may rely entirely on that medication.
If a member of staff administers the medication improperly, the facility and the staff member may be held liable for the mistake.
Seek Help from a Rochester Elder Abuse Attorney
When your loved one has been harmed due to the negligence and acts of others, don’t take a back seat. Reach out to a Rochester elder abuse lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable on New York elder abuse laws.
At Brown Chiari LLP, we take these matters seriously. We will listen to your circumstances and talk with you about any next steps during your free consultation. Give us a call at 716-681-7190 or fill out the contact form to reach our professional team. Let us give your loved one a voice.
