Law Offices of Paul L. Whitfield, P.A.

The National Center on Elder Abuse, acting as the U.S. clearinghouse for information for law enforcement, legal professionals, and other networks, discovered that more than 30% of all nursing homes nationwide commit some form of elder abuse. This indicates that only 20% of nursing home abuse is even reported, making the actual incidence of abuse much higher. Also, more than 50% of all nursing homes do not have an adequate number of staff to look after their residents. This overburdens the staff they do have, resulting in neglect and abuse. Nursing homes are frequently understaffed, and their workers are underpaid. Professional nursing duties are assigned to low-paid and unskilled workers. As baby boomers age and begin to require elder care, the nursing home situation becomes even more critical. The supply of beds in nursing homes is predicted to fall significantly short of the demand in the coming years. This means that supply and demand have led to substandard conditions in nursing homes. If elder abuse is not legally taken to task, the occurrence of abuse will only get worse. The elderly frequently suffer from dementia or Alzheimer's or are in such poor physical condition that they are either not cognizant or are not able to effectively communicate what is happening in their environment. A family member, friend, or relative visiting them commonly feels the responsibility for observing and reporting what is happening and seeking legal advice on actions that can be taken. Most people do not know what would legally constitute nursing home abuse and be grounds for legal action. The Eldercare Attorneys (Law Offices of Paul L. Whitfield, P.A.) offer a free consultation to discuss your concerns and potential legal action with a personal injury attorney. Please call our office at 919-670-0508 or email us at [email protected] to arrange an appointment.