The decision to put a loved one in one of the facilities can be difficult and heartbreaking at times. The goal is to provide your parent or other loved one with the best possible care that cannot feasibly be provided now at home. If you find out that your loved one is being mistreated or not cared for properly, it is time to take quick action.

Here are some of the steps to take if you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect:

1. Determine if your loved one is in immediate danger. First, ensure your loved one is not in imminent danger. If you fear he or she is, remove your loved one from the facility immediately and/or call 911 to get law enforcement involved.
2. Talk to nursing home staff and management. Ask questions of the facility’s staff and management about any signs of abuse you notice. If you are not receiving an adequate explanation or response, you will need to pursue further action.
3. Take notes, take pictures, ask questions. Takes notes about your conversations with staff and/or management and document what you hear and see. Take photos as necessary. This all may serve as evidence in potential case of nursing home abuse. Get the names and job positions of those with whom you speak at the facility. If your concerns are not addressed by the facility, then bring the situation before a lawyer or the authorities.
4. Talk to your loved one. Speak to your loved one to learn about his or her symptoms, emotional and mental. If your loved one gives the impression of being threatened, he or she may be hesitant to share information with your or discuss the issue at all. If your loved one suffers from dementia, or is unable to communicate, it may be time to schedule a private doctor’s visit.
5. File a complaint so your concerns are on record. If you feel that the rights of your loved one are being violated, you may file a complaint in Tennessee with the Division of Health Care Facilities, a division of the Department of Health. You can call them toll-free at 877.287.0010.
6. Call a lawyer. Any nursing home resident who has suffered neglect or abuse is entitled to legal protection and potentially significant compensation under the law. You as the loved one the resident, may also be entitled to compensation. Most facilities will not change their practices unless they are confronted by legal action that affects their existence and bottom line. If you feel any of the rights of your loved one are being stolen or denied, get in touch with a nursing home abuse attorney as soon as possible.

At Banks and Jones, we are committed to protecting Knoxville nursing home residents from neglect and abuse. We fight on behalf of the residents of these facilities and their loved ones, to return them to safe living conditions and secure the compensation they deserve for any harm incurred. To arrange a free consultation about your case, call us today at 865.546.2141 or complete our contact form.