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Content Reviewed by: A. Parker Trotz
Expertise   Mr. Trotz has handled injury cases involving auto accidents, slip and fall, premises liability, and negligent security. Every day, Mr. Trotz represents those who have been injured and many of his clients have sustained traumatic and life-altering injuries.

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A. Parker Trotz
Practicing Attorney
Expertise

Mr. Trotz has handled personal injury cases involving car accidents, trucking accidents, slip and fall, premises liability, and negligent security. Each and every day, Mr. Trotz represents those who have been injured through no fault of their own, and many of his clients have sustained traumatic, catastrophic and life-altering injuries.

Last Date Modified
10/24/2024

This comprehensive guide discusses the serious issue of nursing home abuse in Little Rock, AR, offering insights into recognizing signs of abuse, understanding the rights of nursing home residents, and exploring legal recourse. You can also learn how a Little Rock nursing home abuse attorney at NST Law can provide legal assistance and advocate for a victim’s rights and well-being.

Nursing home abuse is a heartbreaking reality that all-too-many elderly residents in Little Rock, Arkansas, face daily. These vulnerable individuals and their families depend on their caregivers to provide treatment with respect and dignity.

Unfortunately, staff and facilities often violate this trust, leading to serious physical harm and emotional distress. The best way to hold abusers accountable and protect the rights and well-being of these residents is to seek legal assistance from a reputable Little Rock nursing home abuse attorney at NST Law.

Why Choose the Little Rock Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers at NST Law

With extensive experience handling nursing home abuse cases, NST Law offers hope for victims and their families. Our dedicated team of Little Rock nursing home abuse lawyers understands the complexity and sensitivity of these cases.

We take pride in our track record, demonstrating a relentless pursuit of justice for our clients as we fight against the neglect and exploitation of our community’s most vulnerable members. We have negotiated significant out-of-court settlements for nursing home residents and their families who experienced neglect and abuse, including bed sores and pressure wounds.

Here are some examples of what our clients have to say:

NST is so professional in what they do. They will fight for you from the beginning to the end.

- Audrey F.

They fought for me. NST is a powerful firm, and it will help its community. I think NST is awesome.

- Everett S.

We have taken on big companies with deep pockets and have recovered over $2 billion for accident victims. Our law firm has local roots, which means we represent people in the community and live here, too. Our team has been named to the Super Lawyers list, and our law firm has a 10.0 AVVO rating.

If someone in your family is the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, we are here to help. Call us any time to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.

Steps to Take When You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse in Little Rock

The first step to take if you suspect nursing home abuse in Little Rock is to immediately address the safety of your loved one. Alert the facility’s management about your concerns and urge it to act promptly to protect your loved one.

Collecting Evidence

Documenting evidence of the suspected abuse is crucial. This can include taking photographs of injuries or unclean living conditions, keeping a log of any unexplained behavioral changes, and saving all relevant medical reports. This evidence can be instrumental later.

Reporting to Authorities

It’s essential to report the suspected abuse to the proper authorities. This includes local law enforcement, the Arkansas Department of Human Services, and the Arkansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman. They can investigate and take the necessary actions.

Consulting a Little Rock Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

Lastly, contact an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer in Little Rock. The lawyers at NST Law can provide invaluable guidance and representation. They will help you understand your legal options, navigate the complexities of the law, and advocate for the rights and well-being of your loved one.

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse refers to any act or omission by caregivers or other individuals that causes harm to elderly residents. Abuse can take multiple forms, including neglect and physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. 

  • Physical Abuse involves the use of force, such as slapping, pushing, and hitting. Signs include unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, restraint and grip marks on wrists, withdrawal, and fear. 
  • Psychological abuse involves verbal and non-verbal conduct that causes mental and emotional distress. Insults, threats, unfair treatment, and isolation are common forms of psychological abuse.
  • Sexual abuse involves unwanted, non-consensual sexual contact in a nursing home, including improper touching, groping, rape, and sexual remarks. Notably, incapacitated patients and individuals with cognitive disorders cannot provide consent. Common perpetrators include staff, visitors, and other residents. Some signs include unexplained sexually transmitted infections, pain when sitting or walking, discomfort around certain staff and residents, withdrawal, and behavioral changes.
  • Financial abuse typically occurs when a staff member, visitor, or family member tricks or coerces a nursing home resident to give them their money or property. Warning signs include unexplained financial transactions or expenses, missing belongings, unpaid bills, and unauthorized changes in powers of attorney or wills. 
  • Neglect occurs when caregivers and facilities fail to provide a sufficient standard of care to a nursing home resident. Neglect causes preventable diseases, injuries, psychological stress, and wrongful deaths. Signs of neglect include injuries from falls, bedsores, elopement, dehydration, poor hygiene, and unsanitary living conditions.

Nursing homes have a legal obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents. Among other things, they must maintain their facilities to prevent unsafe conditions, staff it adequately to ensure residents receive adequate care, and properly screen employees. 

When nursing homes fail to protect their residents from abuse and neglect and uphold the appropriate standard of care, they can be liable for the abuse their residents have suffered.

Prevalence of Nursing Home Abuse

Sadly, nursing home abuse is widespread, affecting communities in Little Rock and nationwide. According to the National Council on Aging, up to five million seniors experience abuse annually across the country. Unfortunately, these numbers are unlikely to be accurate, with WHO estimating that only one of every 24 elder abuse cases is reported.

In Arkansas, elder abuse and nursing home abuse are serious issues. According to the nonprofit investigative journalism organization ProPublica, 91 deficiencies in nursing homes across the state were reported between 2020 and 2022. However, this only accounts for the reported incidents. Victims may not report abuse or neglect due to feeling afraid, humiliated, or ashamed. Unfortunately, unreported cases often lead to more serious outcomes, including death. 

Impact on Victim's Health

The consequences of nursing home abuse are devastating. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, victims often suffer from long-term psychological trauma, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. In some cases, abuse and neglect lead to serious health complications and, in the worst cases, can be fatal.

Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse is critical in protecting our elderly loved ones. These are common indicators:

  • Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures
  • Sudden changes in behavior or mood, including signs of depression or anxiety
  • Withdrawal from social activities or sudden loss of interest in hobbies
  • Unusual financial transactions or missing personal belongings
  • Poor personal hygiene or unkempt living conditions
  • Unexpected weight loss or signs of malnutrition and dehydration

It’s essential to take these red flags seriously, as they may indicate ongoing abuse or neglect. Family members and caregivers must stay vigilant and take immediate action if they suspect abuse. Your vigilance could be a lifesaver for a resident suffering in silence.

Rights of Nursing Home Residents

The federal Nursing Home Reform Act and the Arkansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program aim to safeguard our elderly population in nursing homes.

Residents of nursing homes are afforded certain legal rights and protections under state and federal law, including: 

  • The right to treatment with dignity and respect
  • The right to a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment
  • Freedom from abuse, neglect, and exploitation
  • The right to privacy, including in communications and personal care
  • The right to manage personal finances
  • The right to voice grievances without fear of reprisal

 Upholding these rights and seeking justice in nursing home abuse or neglect is imperative.

Legal Recourse and Compensation

When faced with nursing home abuse in Little Rock, victims and their families have several legal avenues to seek justice. The process often begins with a complaint to the relevant state authorities, followed by a civil lawsuit if necessary. During this process, documentation of abuse, witness testimonies, and expert opinions can form the basis of your case.

Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the abuse. Compensation can also include the cost of moving the victim to a safer environment or providing necessary therapies to help them recover.

As dedicated nursing home abuse attorneys in Little Rock, NST Law guides you through every step of the legal process, building a robust case and fiercely advocating for justice on your behalf.

Preventing Nursing Home Abuse

Preventing nursing home abuse involves several proactive measures. Regular inspections of nursing facilities make it more likely that they will maintain appropriate standards of care. Staff training is vital, teaching caregivers to handle the unique challenges of elder care while fostering an environment of respect and dignity.

However, the most potent weapon against nursing home abuse is awareness. As a community, we must remain informed about the rights of nursing home residents and the signs of abuse. NST Law actively participates in and advocates for awareness campaigns, empowering the community to protect our most vulnerable members.

nursing home abuse little rock

Nursing Home Abuse in Little Rock FAQs

If you suspect nursing home abuse, protect the immediate safety of your loved one and alert the facility’s management. Document all evidence of potential abuse and report your suspicions to the proper authorities. Consult a Little Rock nursing home abuse attorney at NST Law to understand your legal options.

Nursing home residents have several legal rights. These include the rights to treatment with respect, live in a safe and comfortable environment, be free from abuse and neglect, have privacy, manage personal finances, and voice complaints without fear of reprisal.

Victims of nursing home abuse can seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, relocation costs to a safer facility, and other damages related to the abuse. A dedicated nursing home abuse attorney can help determine the full extent of the potential compensation.

NST Law Is Your Partner to Combat Nursing Home Abuse in Little Rock

The issue of nursing home abuse in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a pressing concern that requires our attention and action. Holding abusers and facilities accountable for abuse helps ensure a safer environment for our elderly loved ones in nursing homes.

We encourage anyone suspecting abuse to seek help from NST Law and protect their loved one’s rights. Remember, you are not alone in this fight. We can help you explore your legal options and assert your rights.

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Our Little Rock Office

4 Shackleford Plaza

Suite 211

Little Rock, AR 72211

Phone: 501-381-3391

Fax: 501-891-5036

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