Dallas Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Are you concerned about a loved one experiencing nursing home abuse in Dallas, Texas? Don’t wait to take action. Your loved one deserves to live in a safe and respectful environment. You have the right to seek justice and hold the responsible parties accountable.

The Dallas nursing home abuse lawyers at The Wilhite Law Firm will pursue your case with dedication and care. We understand the challenges you face and will work tirelessly to protect your loved one’s rights. Contact us today for a free initial consultation, and let us help you demand the justice your family deserves.

What Are the Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse?

Many families in Dallas place their trust in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, expecting their loved ones to receive quality care. Unfortunately, these facilities sometimes violate this trust through various forms of elder abuse, such as:

• Physical abuse – Physical abuse involves the use of force resulting in bodily harm, pain, or impairment. This type of abuse includes slapping, pushing, and improper use of restraints.
• Emotional abuse – Emotional abuse happens when caregivers inflict mental pain or distress through verbal or non-verbal actions. This can involve yelling, threats, humiliation, or isolation.
• Sexual abuse – Sexual abuse occurs when someone forces non-consensual sexual contact or behavior upon a resident. This can include unwanted touching, sexual assault, or harassment.
• Neglect – Neglect involves failing to provide residents with necessary care, leading to harm or distress. This can mean not providing adequate food, water, hygiene, or medical care.
• Financial exploitation – Financial abuse occurs when someone illegally or improperly takes or uses a resident’s money, property, or assets. This type of abuse can involve theft, forgery, or coercion.

What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

Detecting nursing home abuse early can save residents from considerable harm and suffering. Families and friends must stay alert to the possible signs of abuse to ensure their loved ones remain safe and well-cared for. Nursing home abuse signs can include:

• Unexplained bruises, fractures, or bedsores
• Frequent trips to the emergency room
• Depression, anxiety, or sudden mood swings
• Withdrawal from normal activities
• Unexplained sexually transmitted infections
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Poor personal hygiene
• Unexplained weight loss
• Missing personal belongings
• Unfamiliar charges on medical bills
• Discrepancies in medication records
• Excessive or unnecessary medical procedures
• Unexplained withdrawals from accounts
• Isolation from social activities
• Untreated medical conditions
• Dirty or unsafe living conditions
• Lack of adequate clothing or bedding

What Rights Do Nursing Home Residents Have?

Moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility does not mean giving up personal rights. Both federal and state laws provide specific protections for residents in these facilities, such as the right to:

• Be treated with dignity, respect, and consideration
• Retain civil liberties as Texas residents and U.S. citizens, including observing their religious beliefs
• Be informed about their medical conditions and participate in treatment planning
• Maintain confidentiality for personal and medical records
• Plan and engage in activities within long-term care facilities
• Choose their own doctors and pharmacy services
• Be free from physical, mental, or verbal abuse and from chemical and physical restraints
• Associate and communicate privately and have visits with anyone of their choice
• Access mail, telephone services, resident council activities, their own records, and state inspection reports
• Be informed about Medicaid or Medicare services and other services and their costs
• Refuse transfers or discharges without proper cause or notice
• Be treated without discrimination, regardless of payment source
• Express grievances and make complaints without fear of discrimination or retaliation
• Manage their own financial and personal affairs and make independent decisions
• Issue advance directives, such as directives to physicians and do-not-resuscitate orders

What Steps Do I Take If I Suspect My Loved One Is a Victim of Nursing Home Abuse?

If you suspect someone is experiencing nursing home neglect or abuse in Dallas, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect them and ensure their safety. Here’s what you should do:

• Have conversations with the resident and others who might have witnessed the abuse to gather more information and confirm your suspicions.
• Consider relocating the resident to a safer environment if they are in immediate danger.
• Contact the police if you believe the resident is in danger or the victim of a crime.
• Contact the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to file a complaint.
• Ensure the resident receives proper medical care to address any injuries or health issues.
• Keep detailed records of the suspected abuse, including dates, times, descriptions of incidents, and any evidence such as photos or witness statements.
• Speak with a nursing home abuse lawyer to understand your legal options and how to proceed.

What Damages Could Be Collected in a Dallas Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?

Pursuing a nursing home abuse lawsuit can help victims and their families seek justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. Various types of damages could be available to address the physical, emotional, and financial harm resulting from the abuse, including compensation for:

• The costs of current and future medical treatment and rehabilitation related to the abuse
• The physical pain and emotional distress the resident endured due to the abuse
• Psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, and trauma resulting from the abuse
• Lost quality of life, including the loss of the ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies
• Relocation expenses if the resident must move to a safer facility due to the abuse
• Funeral and burial expenses if the abuse results in the resident’s death

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Dallas Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?

Texas law gives you two years to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit. If you wait too long, you could lose the right to pursue legal action and seek compensation for the harm your loved one suffered. This means it’s essential to contact a lawyer immediately if you suspect abuse. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and file your claim on time.

Contact a Dallas Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Don’t wait to take action if you suspect nursing home abuse in Dallas. Contact The Wilhite Law Firm today for a free legal consultation. Our dedicated nursing home abuse attorneys are here to ensure your family member receives the care and respect they deserve.