There are multiple different reasons why families in New Mexico and across the country make the decision to place their loved ones in a nursing home. These facilities not only offer health care and assistance with activities of daily living, they also provide a residence that is secure, safe and provides companionship — in theory. While many facilities are appropriately staffed with the correct number of employees who have received adequate training, there are some in which negligence and abuse can lead to harm to residents.
In fact, the World Health Organization claims that one in six people who are over the age of 60 are victims of abuse. This abuse leaves them more likely to die early when compared to people in the same age group who are not abused. Unfortunately, defective equipment, poor medical care, malnutrition and neglect are all potential issues that nursing home residents can face.
There are some obvious signs of abuse and neglect, including pressure sores and bruises. However, some the signs for some victims may be less obvious. Talking with a loved one about treatment and observing the facility and the loved one’s overall physical appearance can help detect such treatment.
If nursing home abuse is detected, family members will most likely want to take their concerns to those in charge. However, it is also important to report these concerns to law enforcement officers. Many people in New Mexico have also decided to take further legal action by filing a personal injury lawsuit — against individual employees, the company as a whole or both — to ensure that those responsible for neglect and abuse are held accountable for the treatment and that others are protected from similar actions.