Elder Abuse Lawyer Baltimore, MD
It is the duty of an assisted living facility to ensure adequate care is being provided to all residents. For anyone who cannot care for themselves, these facilities can be a blessing. Sadly, expectations are not always met, and sometimes it is discovered that a resident has been abused or neglected. When this is true, an elder abuse lawyer Baltimore, MD residents have trusted for years should be called upon.
As one of the foremost nursing home lawyers in Baltimore, MD, we, at Brown Kiely LLP, believe any kind of abuse is absolutely unacceptable. For years, we have been holding accused parties accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has been abused in an assisted living facility, please call us today for a consultation.
Do You Know What Elder Abuse Is?
At some point a loved one of an elder might feel as if they have no other options, but to turn to an assisted care facility for help. The elder might have various physical or mental health conditions that require monitoring and treatment. These facilities tend to be well equipped with the necessary resources, equipment, and time needed to attend to elders. While most facilities do adhere to their duty of care, some do not. When an elder is abused or neglected, not only might they suffer long term effects, but they could also lose their life.
As an elder abuse lawyer in Baltimore, MD might explain to you, abuse in these facilities has been a problem since the 1970s. Often it is associated with understaffing, insufficient training, overworked staff, or funding limitations. In general, when an elder is a victim, he or she will have been abused or neglected for months or years before it is recognized and reported. Examples of abuse include:
- Verbal abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Mental abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial exploitation
- Neglect (i.e. hygiene, feeding, hydrating, medicating, bathing, etc.)
In the most recent nationwide study (2012), at least 25% of residents reported they had been abused at least one time while living in a nursing home. Despite ongoing efforts from social workers and the government to reduce these incidents, they happen every day. Unfortunately, these numbers don’t reflect the many elders who were too scared to speak up. This happens because:
- The elder fears retaliation
- Loved ones might not visit the facility enough to identify the abuse or neglect
- The abuse or neglect is not obvious
Our Baltimore, Maryland elder abuse lawyers know of many cases that have involved abuse/neglect for years. Many victims will suffer great harm before family members realize something isn’t right. Sometimes, it is too late. We would encourage all family members to visit their loved ones on a regular basis, and pay close attention to their behavior, appearance, and environment. If you believe your elder has been abused, please don’t wait to call an elder abuse lawyer in Baltimore, MD. Call Brown Kiely LLP.
