As our loved ones age, we do our best to support and care for them as they did when we were young. However, in many cases, whether due to health issues or availability, the best thing we can do for our aging relatives is to help them find a reputable, comfortable nursing home. That's why the last thing we want to worry about is whether we're exposing our vulnerable loved ones to abuse.Unfortunately, abuse in the nursing home industry not only exists but is also rampant. One needs only research settlement information in lawsuits or search 'nursing home abuse organization' to get a substantial amount of results. With all of the other factors to research, such as cost and amenities, we now must also spare time to determine if we trust the staff with care for our loved one.In this article, we'll shed light on nursing home abuse in Chicago: what it is, including the types and signs, and how to fight it, including seeking legal action.

Elderly Neglect and Abuse in Chicago's Resident Facilities

Now, just because we're focusing on one city doesn't mean this is an isolated issue. Resident facilities for elders have been facing charges of abuse across the US. Some of the reasons it has become so rampant is poor managerial practices, a lack of available care staff, and the occasional malicious person seeking a position of power. Chicago area elder care facilities are facing rampant issues with staffing, proper training, and accountability. The patient-to-staff ratio is often too high, and nurses are exhausted and stressed. This can lead to mistakes that have devastating effects on residents. Additionally, many nursing homes have lax requirements for training and education or lax enforcement of teaching after hire. As a result, staff members are left to sink or swim and don't have the time or job security to argue about it.The above issues can lead to neglect, one of the many forms of abuse our elders may face. Other forms include physical, emotional, financial, and sexual. For example, a malicious staff member may withhold medical treatment as punishment or isolate our loved ones in their rooms. Over-tired nurses may forget to turn over bedridden residents, leading to bed sores and potential infections.

Spotting Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse

Discovering that your loved one is suffering may not be easy. While some patients are lucid and brave enough to ask for help, others become too frightened to discuss matters or don't have a voice for themselves. That's why it's imperative to learn the warning signs of abuse and keep active in your loved one's care.Some common signs can include sudden weight changes, dehydration, unexplained injuries, bed sores, and sepsis. An uptick in fear or the development of anxiety or depression can also be signs something is wrong. In worst-case scenarios, the effects and trauma from the abuse can lead to death.

How to Fight Nursing Home Abuse

People are working to protect our loved ones in many ways, from advocating for stricter regulations to encouraging more nurses to head into the caretaking field. We should also advocate for better whistleblower policies to protect nurses and have more accountability in our nursing homes.If you want to find more resources on advocacy or signs of abuse, check out Nursing Home Abuse or Nursing Home Abuse Justice, two non-profits dedicated to ending elder abuse in nursing homes.

Here's What to Do if You Suspect Abuse

First and foremost, call the authorities. If the abuse is happening in front of you or a resident is actively suffering, call 911. Otherwise, use the non-emergency police line. You can also contact Adult Protective Services and the Illinois Department on Aging.Once the authorities are alerted and the victim receives care, it's time to contact a reputable personal injury lawyer. You want to find a lawyer with a track record of success handling nursing home abuse cases. Your lawyer will then help you gather documentation and pursue a civil suit against the nursing home or the staff member responsible. Your loved one deserves justice, including compensation to get them medical or psychological care for what happened. Should the worst come to pass, compensation can also cover funeral and burial expenses.Your lawyer will walk you through the process, from gathering evidence to settling or taking the nursing home to court. They will represent you and your loved one in all aspects so that you can focus on helping your elderly relative recover.