Tinley Park Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys

Advocating for Victims of Neglect and Abuse in Orland Park, IL

Placing a loved one in the care of a nursing home is a difficult decision. It can carry with it a sense of fear and worry and maybe even a bit of defeat. However, it is a path that many families must choose when they can no longer meet the physical, medical, or supervisory needs of someone they love. In doing so, they entrust that the facility will compassionately care for their loved one. Sadly, this trust is sometimes betrayed and a beloved family member is injured or wrongfully killed because of negligence or abuse.

At Schwartz Injury Law, we stand up for the most vulnerable members of our society by aggressively representing nursing home victims and their families. When compensation is owed for medical expenses, loss of life, pain and suffering, or other damages, our attorney pursues the highest settlement possible. Above all, we partner with victims and their families, serving as skilled and compassionate advocates in the fight to ensure that negligent or abusive parties are held responsible for their actions.

Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that each year as many as 1,800 nursing home residents fall and suffer a fatal injury. Many others suffer serious injuries such as broken bones and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Inadequate staff training, under-staffing, complacency, and a disregard for the safety and well-being of residents are all factors that contribute to this alarmingly high number of accidental falls. Falling is not the only injury that can occur at a poorly or understaffed facility, however. Residents may also be at risk for other injuries, such as:

• Dehydration from lack of fluids,
• Malnutrition from poor diet,
• Increased susceptibility to illness,
• Errors in administering medication that may lead to death or serious injury,
• Bedsores from poor hygiene or care,
• Infections that may lead to serious illness,
• Bone fractures,
• Functional decline,
• Depression or anxiety from excessive isolation,
• Serious illness due to inadequate hand-washing or sanitary procedures, and
• Many other illnesses and injuries that diminish a resident's overall quality of life.

Presence of these injuries or illnesses, regardless of the reason, are signs of nursing home neglect. They are not generally intentional acts (though they can be), but it does not make them any less harmful. Our attorney understands this, and we can help you pursue compensation for any losses, pain and suffering, or medical expenses that might have resulted from negligent nursing home care.

Unlike neglect, nursing home abuse is typically intentional and malicious. It is meant to cause harm, and may even be used to punish a resident. These acts may include:

• Punching or hitting,
• Kicking or biting,
• Sexual misconduct,
• Verbal abuse,
• Intentional misuse of drugs or medication,
• Misuse of restraint,
• Intentional isolation,
• Refusal to provide basic care (shower, food, clothing, etc.),
• Theft,
• Failure to report known or suspected abuse,
• Aggressive mishandling, and
• Humiliation or ridicule.

Compassionate Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Lawyer

If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected, seek immediate assistance and secure their safety. Once they are out of harm's way, Schwartz Injury Law can step in and help you begin the claims process. We will stand by your side, every step of the way, ensuring you know you have a compassionate ally in your pursuit of justice. Get the help that your loved one deserves. Contact our Orland Park Nursing Home Abuse & Negligence Attorneys at 708-888-2160 and schedule a consultation in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Burbank, Oak Lawn, Homer Glen, Mokena, Bedford Park, Palos Heights, and throughout northern Illinois.