Many families have loved ones who live in a nursing home. Many times, older adults are not able to take care of themselves and need to be in a safe place. Nursing homes provide living arrangements for vulnerable adults. These are important places for Cook County residents, but unfortunately, there are many reports of nursing home abuse.
One of the leading causes of death for nursing home residents are from fall-related injuries. Each year, approximately 1,800 nursing home residents die because of a fall. A typical nursing home that has 100 beds reports at least 100 to 200 falls each year with almost 75 percent of nursing home residents falling each year. However, it is believed that many more falls remain unreported. Those who live in a nursing home are four times more likely to die from a fall than those who live with loved one or at home. Environmental hazards are one of the main causes of falls. In nursing homes environmental hazards can be incorrect bed height, slippery floors, improper exit signs and faulty bed rails.
Nursing home residents need the best of care. As vulnerable adults, they rely on other people to take care of their every need. This around the clock care is what families rely on to make sure their loved one stays safe and well during their golden years. When negligence occurs in a nursing home a family may want to speak with an attorney who specializes in nursing home abuse. An attorney understands what a family is going through and can investigate the cause of the accident and whether negligence was a factor. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, funeral expenses, pain and suffering and other damages.
Many families in the Cook County area have had to make the agonizing decision to place their loved one in a skilled nursing facility. Usually these facilities are the best places for vulnerable adults. But, if an act of negligence occurs, it is important to hold these facilities accountable for their actions.
