We at the law firm of Hach & Rose take nursing home abuse seriously. In our eyes it is one of the most reprehensible and preventable failings of our elder care system. The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is one of the most daunting decisions a family will have to make. Of course the primary concern is to make sure the needs of your loved one are attended to with care, skill and respect. There are facilities that offer top-notch service and great track records but, the risk deficient care is very real. If you or a loved one feels they have been subject to abuse or neglect at the hands of a nursing or elder care facility contact us. We believe very strongly in the dignity and respect that should be bestowed upon our seniors and will fight tooth and nail to make certain it is achieved.

Read what the United States House of Representatives has to say about the topic in a recent report authored by Representative Henry Waxman.

If you are looking for information or resources which may help in your decision to place a loved one in a proper facility, the world wide web can be a great source of information. At the very least please take the time to adhere to a few simple steps outlined below:

Find A List of Potential Nursing Homes by: 1) Compiling a list of potential nursing homes within traveling distance; 2) Speak to friends, neighbors, senior groups, and social groups about potential facilities; 3) Check the Medicare and Medicaid website for a list of certified nursing facilities

Next, determine it’s proximity to family members and friends so that visits can be as frequent as possible.

Make an unannounced visit to the facility and determine the general ‘feel’ of the place. Is the atmosphere friendly? How do the staff treat residents? Is the facility clean? How is the temperature? How is the food?

After the unscheduled walk-through, set up an appointment with the facilities administrator and ask questions regarding rights of residents regarding visitation, meals, hiring practices and requirements.

Also ask about what steps are taken in the event of a medical emergency? Are there trained medical professionals on staff? Where is the nearest hospital to the facility?

Are there social events? Opportunities to interact with friends and other residents?