Do you know what you would do if your loved one was the victim of abuse, neglect or an injury in their nursing home?

Nursing Home Negligence Shouldn't happen - But it does!

Elderly and disabled persons often are admitted to nursing homes for short term rehabilitation or long term care and treatment.  When you make the difficult decision to place an elderly or disabled member of your family in a nursing home, you expect that loved one to receive attentive, competent and professional care and treatment.  In fact, all nursing home patients are entitled to such care by the laws of the United States and the State of New York. 

All too often, elderly and disabled patients in nursing homes are injured physically, mentally or financially due to nursing home negligence.  Nursing home negligence may cause serious, permanent injury and even death.  Evidence of nursing home negligence may include bedsores or pressure ulcers (also known as decubitus ulcers), falls that may cause fractures or other injuries, unexplained bruising or other signs of physical and/or sexual abuse, malnutrition, dehydration, infection, sepsis, misuse of medication or prescription errors.  Recognizing the defenseless position of elderly and disabled persons who are nursing home patients, Congress and the New York State Legislature have enacted specific laws to provide rights and remedies to nursing home patients who are victims of negligence and/or abuse.  In turn, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the New York State Department of Health have issued specific regulations to establish standards of care and to protect nursing home patients. Nursing home negligence constitutes a violation of these laws and regulations.

If you believe that you or a loved have been injured as a result of nursing home negligence, you should consult with attorneys who are experienced in the field of nursing home negligence to investigate and evaluate your claims.  The attorneys with whom you consult should be familiar with the unique nature of nursing home negligence cases.  At Lever & Stolzenberg, LLP, our attorneys have the knowledge and the experience in the field of nursing home negligence to prepare and prosecute your case and recover an award of money damages for you or your loved one. 

Library for Nursing Home Negligence:

• Important questions to ask before selecting a nursing home for your loved one.   
  Questions that ensure the nursing home you select is right for your loved one.
• Causes of Sudden Behavioral Changes In Nursing Home Residents   
  If your elder love one suffers a sudden behavioral change while in a nursing home, it could be a sign of neglect, abuse, or a medical issue that needs attention
• New York Nursing Home Financial Abuse & Elder Exploitation   
  Elder financial abuse in nursing homes can be devastating - and it is woefully under reported. Learn more about senior financial abuse in this legal article.
• Signs Of New York Nursing Home Neglect   
  Are you familiar with the signs and red flags of nursing home neglect? Learn common signs from a New York City nursing home neglect attorney.

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Frequent Questions for Nursing Home Negligence:

• What rights do nursing home residents have?
• What constitutes "exploitation" in the nursing home setting?
• What is the definition of neglect?
• What should I do if nursing home neglect or abuse is suspected?
• What are some signs that indicate nursing home abuse or neglect might be occurring?
• Does a visitor to a nursing home have any rights against the nursing home if he/she is injured there?

Web Resources for Nursing Home Negligence:

• Helpguide.org

  Description: A non-profit resource which provides information on caregiving and support for seniors and the aging population.  It focuses on aging well, nursing homes and other issues facing the elderly and their families.

• Nursing Home Information Site

  Description: This nursing home information site was established to answer the many questions you likely have regarding nursing homes, Medicare, Medicaid, long term health insurance, and patient rights.  It includes answers to many frequently asked questions and includes advice for both patients and family members.

• NursingHomes.com

  Description: A free elder care referral service.  Includes an assessment form to identify your needs and match them to a facility in your area that will meet your needs.  Also has advisors you can speak to -free of charge - to help you make the best choice for you or your loved one.

• Your Rights as a Nursing Home Resident in New York State

  Description: The Department of Health provides a list of your rights as a nursing home resident in NYS and the responsibilities of the nursing home.  In addition to listing specific rights, including being treated with dignity and respect, it addresses: 
  
  - Admission Process
  - Life at the Facility
  - Clinical Care and Treatment
  - Privacy and Confidentiality
  - Finances
  - Transfer and Discharge
  - Required Postings
   

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