Elder abuse is a disturbing reality that affects far too many vulnerable seniors. According to the CDC, nursing home residents account for less than 0.5 percent of the U.S. population, but they accounted for over 21 percent of reported COVID-19-related deaths. This demonstrates the vulnerabilities this population faces. That’s why it’s critical to recognize the signs of neglect or mistreatment and know how to properly report nursing home abuse if it occurs.
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Recognizing Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in Las Vegas, NV
Surveys have revealed alarming rates of elder abuse taking place in nursing home facilities. A study by the World Health Organization found that over half of nursing home staff surveyed admitted to engaging in some type of abusive behavior towards residents in the past year. Additionally, around 1 in 6 seniors reported experiencing abuse while living in a nursing care facility within a 12 month period. These statistics demonstrate that institutional elder abuse is a serious and pervasive issue that often goes undetected and unreported.
The first step is knowing what abusive or negligent treatment looks like. Warning signs include:
- Unexplained injuries like bruises, cuts, or bed sores
- Significant weight loss and dehydration
- Lack of basic hygiene
- Overmedication or undermedication
- Fear, anxiety, or depression
- Sudden changes in finances
Pay attention if your loved one makes concerning statements about staff or care at the facility. Their room being dirty or smelling of urine can also indicate neglect.
Documenting Nursing Home Abuse Evidence
According to Alex De Castroverde, a Las Vegas nursing home abuse attorney, before reporting suspected nursing home abuse in Las Vegas, you should gather documentation. This evidence will strengthen your case. Useful information includes:
- Dated photos of injuries or unsanitary conditions
- Written statements from your loved one
- Medical records indicating neglect
- Detailed notes about incidents, conversations, and your own observations. These will be helpful even if they don’t contain hard evidence.
Filing Internal Complaints in Las Vegas Nursing Home Abuse Cases
Most nursing homes have procedures for submitting grievances. Follow these to file an internal complaint about abuse or neglect. Submit your documentation and be specific when describing the issues.
Follow up to confirm they received the complaint. They should investigate within 5 days. If the home’s resolution is unsatisfactory, take further action.
Contacting External Organizations in Nevada
Several external organizations have the authority to intervene in cases of nursing home abuse or neglect in Nevada.
The Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD) oversees the regulation of senior care facilities. File a complaint with the ADSD online or by calling 775-687-4210. Their trained investigators will promptly review the issues on-site.
You can also contact the Nevada Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. Their advocates investigate abuse reports and help resolve problems. Call the Ombudsman at 888-282-1155.
If you believe a crime occurred, get law enforcement involved. File a report with the appropriate police department or contact the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Nevada Attorney General’s office.
Consulting a Las Vegas Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
For legal guidance during the reporting process, contact a nursing home abuse attorney. An experienced lawyer can advise you on the strongest avenues for action and intervene on your loved one’s behalf if the facility’s response seems deficient. They will determine if you have grounds to pursue legal remedies. Though no amount of money can undo abuse or neglect, damages can cover medical bills and improved care costs.
Following Up
Check back regularly with all authorities you contacted to report nursing home abuse in Las Vegas. Verify that they are fully investigating the complaint and not delaying taking corrective action. Maintain detailed records of these communications too. If the facility still fails to fix problems or punish responsible staff, escalate matters by contacting state representatives or media outlets. With persistence and the right help, you can get justice for your loved one.
Reporting abuse is difficult, but critical for protecting vulnerable nursing home residents. Follow these steps to properly document issues and notify the appropriate authorities. Though the process takes courage, your actions can prevent others from being harmed. With the right support and oversight, your loved one can hopefully find safety and receive attentive care.
