Albuquerque Nursing Home Fall Attorneys

Common Causes of Falls in New Mexico Nursing Homes

A resident may fall in a nursing home for one of many reasons. The cause may be specific to a resident or a broader facility problem.

Many falls in nursing homes are caused by:

• Weakened muscles. Many elderly adults have decreased mobility and struggle to navigate spaces independently. Older adults who do not use needed mobility aids are more likely to fall.
• Medication side effects. Some medications may induce grogginess or other side effects that could affect mobility and motor control. 
• Unsafe premises. A lack of safety features, such as railings and sufficient lighting, can contribute to falls. Hazardous property defects, such as uneven flooring or loose carpeting, can also cause residents to trip and fall.

How Neglect Can Cause or Contribute to Falls in New Mexico Nursing Homes

Nursing home staff should be trained to prevent falls and recognize potential falling risks, including environmental hazards that could cause a resident to trip. They should also be familiar with each resident’s individualized care plan, recognize any risk factors that could predispose them to fall, and take extra steps to ensure their safety. 

When a fall does occur, medical care should be promptly administered, and the incident should be reported and investigated. A resident who falls once can easily fall again if the underlying problem is not addressed, and the goal should always be to prioritize safety and minimize the possibility of an accident.

In reality, many nursing homes fail to live up to these responsibilities. Their employees are frequently undertrained and overworked, meaning they may not be equipped to recognize tripping hazards or be familiar with what to do immediately after a resident falls. Even well-trained employees may be stretched too thin to be able to give each resident the care and attention they need to avoid injury. 

If you are not sure whether your loved one’s fall could have been avoided, we encourage you to discuss your concerns with our team at the Harvey, Foote & Baker Law Firm. Our Albuquerque nursing home fall attorneys can assess what happened, advise whether neglect may have played a role in the incident, and walk you through your legal options. 

Common Injuries Caused by Falls in Nursing Homes

While younger adults may be able to shrug off a slip and fall, older adults are more vulnerable to serious injuries in these scenarios. A single fall can leave an elderly nursing home resident with lasting physical injuries that may also trigger adverse mental health problems. 

Health consequences of falls in nursing homes may include:

• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Cuts and abrasions
• Fractured or broken bones
• Soft tissue injuries
• Spinal injuries

Recovering Damages in a New Mexico Nursing Home Neglect Lawsuit

If there is evidence a nursing home violated the duty of care that they owed your loved one, you have the right to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for damages. You may have a case if you can demonstrate that the nursing home’s negligence led to or contributed to the fall. We are prepared to try these cases all the way and will always work to maximize what your family recovers.

Our Albuquerque nursing home fall lawyers will fight to secure compensation for all losses, including:

• Past, current, and future medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life

If your loved one has fallen more than once at a nursing home, it is time to talk to our legal professionals. Contact us online or call (505) 295-2245today.