Getting to the root of nursing home abuse

In order for the number of nursing home abuse cases to decrease or stop altogether, it’s important for family members, workers and legal representatives in New York to understand some of the causes of abuse. Sometimes, the type of abuse that occurs depends on the care given by the staff at the nursing home and management. Another reason that the types of abuse differ from one home to another is because of the residents in the home, such as women or those who are mentally handicapped.

A lack of workers is a common reason why nursing home neglect resulting in injury occurs. There simply aren’t enough nurses or assistants in nursing homes to monitor all of the activity that takes place or to make reports when abuse is suspected. When workers aren’t trained properly, there can be an increase in neglect or abuse as well. Another issue related to staffing issues at nursing homes is that workers are underpaid. When workers don’t make enough money for the tasks that are performed, they might not want to perform all of their duties in a professional manner.

Some workers have reasons why they abuse nursing home residents. These reasons sometimes aren’t known to anyone until after the abuse surfaces and the worker is charged with a crime. It is at that point that the worker might reveal the intentions behind the abuse and why it took place. Workers might be stressed over personal situations or be in poor health while working in the nursing home.

When family members suspect nursing home abuse, they may want to contact an attorney for assistance in starting an investigation. After evidence is gathered, the attorney may work to put together a claim against the nursing home or the person who committed the abuse. Such actions may help the family receive compensation for medical treatments and other related expenses.