Making the decision to place a beloved parent or family member in a nursing home or assisted living facility is built on an enormous amount of trust. You trust that the facility and its staff will provide the safe, compassionate, and professional care your loved one deserves. When that trust is broken, and you begin to suspect that your loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect, it can be a devastating and heartbreaking realization. Please know that your concerns are valid, and you have every right to seek answers and demand justice.
At Geiger Legal Group, we view protecting the elderly as one of our most solemn duties. Our Canton nursing home abuse lawyer team is here to be your family’s unwavering advocate. We are prepared to stand up to negligent facilities, uncover the truth, and fight for the dignity and compensation your loved one deserves. You are not alone in this fight.
Protect Your Loved One. Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Abuse and Neglect
Abuse and neglect in long-term care facilities are not always obvious. Staff may try to explain away injuries, and residents may be unable or afraid to speak up for themselves. It is crucial for families to be vigilant and recognize the warning signs. If you have noticed any of the following, you have reason to be concerned.
Signs of Physical Abuse & Neglect
Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers): A primary indicator of severe neglect, caused by a resident being left in one position for too long.
Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, welts, cuts, sprains, or fractures that staff cannot adequately explain. Look for “wrap-around” bruises on arms or legs that may indicate grabbing.
Malnutrition and Dehydration: Sudden or significant weight loss, dry or cracked lips, and unusual paleness can signal that a resident is not receiving proper food and water.
Poor Hygiene: Unclean clothes or bedding, unwashed hair, body odor, and unsanitary living conditions.
Medication Errors: Over-medication, under-medication, or evidence that prescription drugs are not being administered correctly.
Signs of Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Sudden Emotional Withdrawal: A loved one who was once engaged becomes uncommunicative, withdrawn, or unusually quiet.
Unexplained Fear or Anxiety: Noticeable fear or agitation, especially around certain staff members.
Unusual Behaviors: Actions like rocking, sucking, or mumbling that were not present before.
As an experienced nursing home neglect attorney in Canton, we know how to investigate these signs to determine the root cause.
Your Loved One’s Rights Under Georgia Law
Nursing home residents are protected by a “Bill of Rights” under both federal and Georgia state laws. These facilities are not just providing housing; they have a legal and ethical duty to provide a high standard of care. These rights include, but are not limited to:
The right to be free from all forms of abuse, neglect, and coercion.
The right to proper medical care and a clean, safe environment.
The right to be treated with dignity and respect.
The right to manage their own financial affairs.
The right to communicate freely and privately with family and friends.
When a facility violates these rights through negligence or intentional acts, they can and should be held legally accountable.
How We Hold Negligent Facilities Accountable
When you partner with Geiger Legal Group, you are getting more than just a lawyer; you are getting a dedicated investigative team. As your elder abuse lawyer in Cherokee County, our process for holding facilities accountable is thorough and aggressive.
Immediate Investigation: We act quickly to preserve evidence. We conduct a deep dive into the facility’s history, including state inspection reports, staffing levels, and prior complaints.
Documenting the Harm: We meticulously document your loved one’s injuries by taking photographs and ensuring they receive an independent medical evaluation from a trusted doctor.
Consulting with Experts: We work with a network of medical professionals, geriatric care specialists, and former nursing home administrators who can analyze records and provide expert testimony on how the standard of care was breached.
Filing Legal Action: We will file a comprehensive assisted living injury claim in GA or a nursing home lawsuit to demand full compensation for your loved one’s pain and suffering, medical bills, and other damages. Our goal is not only to win for your family but to force the facility to change its practices so no other family has to endure what yours has.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between nursing home abuse and neglect?
Abuse is typically an intentional act that causes harm, such as physically striking a resident or verbally berating them. Neglect is more often a failure to act—a breach of the duty of care. This includes failing to provide adequate food, water, hygiene, or medical attention, often due to understaffing or poor training. Both are illegal and can form the basis of a lawsuit.
What should I do first if I suspect abuse or neglect?
First, if you believe your loved one is in immediate danger, call 911. Second, report your specific concerns to the nursing home’s administrator and the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). Third, contact a Canton nursing home abuse lawyer immediately to understand your legal rights and options for protecting your family member.
Can the nursing home retaliate against my loved one if I complain?
It is illegal for a nursing home to retaliate against a resident or their family for reporting abuse or filing a complaint. If you fear retaliation, we can take immediate legal steps to protect your loved one and ensure their rights are upheld throughout the process.
