Senior Justice Law Firm – Atlanta Office
1201 W Peachtree St NE Suite 2335
Atlanta, GA 30309
(470) 598-1515
Filing a Lawsuit Against an Atlanta Nursing Home?
Our Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Can Help
Filing a Lawsuit Against an Atlanta Nursing Home?
Our Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys Can Help
If you suspect elder abuse or neglect inside an Atlanta healthcare facility, call us at 470-598-1515. Our law firm can help your family achieve justice after the unthinkable happens inside a Georgia nursing home. At Senior Justice Law Firm, our firm focus is on nursing home negligence litigation. This is all we do.
Bed sores, falls, untreated infection and wrongful death should never happen in nursing homes.
If you notice signs that your loved one has been neglected, speak up now. We offer free consultations, and you only pay us if we recover compensation for you.
At Senior Justice Law Firm, we focus on holding nursing homes accountable for harming residents. Call our Atlanta nursing home abuse attorneys or connect with us through the chat feature on our website.
Recognizing the Red Flags of Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse
Elder abuse in any form is inexcusable. However, our Atlanta nursing home abuse lawyers routinely see the same types of injuries and issues in the cases we handle.
Below are some of the most common signs and injuries that indicate nursing home neglect or abuse.
Bed Sores
Nursing home staff allow bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers or decubitus ulcers, to develop when they fail to reposition residents frequently. Caregivers can prevent these injuries by moving residents regularly and ensuring proper hygiene. If your loved one develops bed sores in an Atlanta nursing home, this negligence is a strong indication of improper care. Residents with limited mobility depend on staff to reposition them, and when caregivers ignore this need, it leads to painful sores. These wounds can worsen without treatment, causing severe infections like sepsis.
Falls
Residents often suffer preventable falls when nursing homes fail to implement proper safety measures. Staff should assess each resident’s fall risk and take precautions like using assistive devices, installing bed rails, or providing supervision. When caregivers neglect these responsibilities, residents face an increased risk of broken bones, head injuries, or even death. Falls often occur because of understaffing, cluttered walkways, or slippery floors. If your loved one suffered a fall, this may indicate neglect, and you should consider filing a nursing home fall claim.
Weight Loss
Neglectful staff often allow residents to experience unexplained weight loss by failing to provide adequate nutrition or assistance with eating. A resident who loses more than 10% of their body mass over a short time period may be suffering from neglect. Caregivers must monitor each resident’s diet and help them eat when necessary. Rapid weight loss can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of infections, and contribute to a significant decline in overall health. If your loved one has experienced substantial weight loss, this may signal that the facility is not meeting their basic needs.
Choking
Residents who need help eating often choke when staff fail to provide supervision during meals. Caregivers must closely monitor residents with swallowing disorders and assist them with eating to prevent choking. When staff neglect this responsibility, choking incidents can result in life-threatening situations or even death. Food or liquid entering the lungs may cause aspiration pneumonia, which requires immediate medical attention. Proper care can prevent these incidents, and if your loved one choked due to negligence, you may have grounds for a nursing home choking death lawsuit.
Sexual Abuse
Nursing home staff or other residents may commit sexual abuse, which often leaves behind clear warning signs. Families should watch for bruising, bleeding, or injuries in sensitive areas, as well as sudden changes in behavior, such as fear or anxiety. Torn clothing or unexplained withdrawal can also indicate sexual abuse. Because many elderly residents struggle to communicate these incidents, families must stay alert to these red flags. If you suspect sexual abuse, you should report it immediately and contact an attorney.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse can result in unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures. These injuries may result from rough handling, intentional harm by staff, or in the form of other resident attacks. A nursing home must ensure that all residents remain safe and free from harm. If the staff fails to provide this basic level of protection, they must be held accountable.
Infections
Nursing homes allow untreated infections to develop when they neglect basic hygiene and medical care. Infections like sepsis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and infected bed sores, are often the result of improper cleanliness or ignoring early symptoms. Caregivers must address signs of infection promptly to prevent serious complications. When staff members neglect these responsibilities, infections can escalate, requiring hospitalization or resulting in death. If your loved one suffered an untreated infection, you may have grounds for a nursing home infection lawsuit.
Wrongful Death
Negligent caregivers often cause wrongful deaths in nursing homes through preventable errors or outright neglect. Sudden or unexplained deaths, particularly for residents admitted for short-term rehabilitation, demand investigation. Common causes of wrongful death include untreated infections, falls, malnutrition, or choking incidents. If your loved one passed away unexpectedly, consult with our Atlanta nursing home injury lawyers to investigate the circumstances and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Caregivers who engage in emotional abuse often cause residents to exhibit depression, anxiety, or withdrawal. Verbal belittling, threats, or intimidation leave residents feeling isolated and helpless. This type of abuse may not leave physical marks, but it can devastate a resident’s mental health. Families must stay attentive to changes in behavior, such as fearfulness or sudden reluctance to interact with staff. Emotional and psychological abuse is as harmful as physical abuse and deserves immediate action.
Financial Abuse
Caregivers may exploit residents financially by accessing their funds or stealing personal belongings. Families should monitor for signs of financial abuse, such as missing valuables, unauthorized transactions, or sudden changes to legal documents like wills. Vulnerable residents often trust their caregivers, making them easy targets for exploitation. If you notice suspicious financial activity, you should investigate and report it to the appropriate authorities.
If you notice these red flags, contact Senior Justice Law Firm at 470-598-1515. Our experienced Atlanta nursing home abuse attorneys can help you investigate and take appropriate legal action.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse?
When you suspect that a nursing home is mistreating your loved one, taking action can protect them from further harm. Recognizing the signs of abuse and knowing how to address the situation allows you to hold the facility accountable. Here’s what you can do to address the issue effectively.
Record What You Notice
Pay close attention to your loved one’s physical and emotional state. Look for bruises, bed sores, unexplained weight loss, or signs of fear or withdrawal. Write down everything you notice, including dates, times, and specific details. Take photos of visible injuries or unsafe conditions, such as soiled bedding or cluttered hallways.
If possible, talk to your loved one about their experiences. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling?” or “Has anything happened that’s bothering you?” Even if they don’t share much, their responses might provide insight into what’s happening.
Report the Problem to the Nursing Home Management
After documenting your concerns, report the issue to the facility’s management. Write down the details of what you’ve observed and include specific examples. Request a written response explaining how they plan to resolve the issue. Keep copies of all correspondence, including emails and letters, in case you need to escalate the matter.
Some problems may arise from mismanagement or staffing shortages, and the facility might address them once notified. However, if management doesn’t take action or dismisses your concerns, you should involve outside authorities.
Contact Georgia State Authorities
When a nursing home fails to address neglect or abuse, you should report the problem to the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). The DCH inspects facilities and investigates complaints. You can file a complaint online or call 1-800-878-6442 for assistance.
You can also contact Adult Protective Services (APS), which protects seniors from harm. APS investigates serious cases of abuse or neglect and can take immediate steps to keep residents safe. Call APS at 1-866-552-4464 if you believe the situation requires urgent action.
Reach Out to a Local Ombudsman
The Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides an independent resource for families dealing with nursing home issues. Ombudsmen investigate complaints, mediate disputes, and offer guidance on how to proceed. They work separately from the nursing home and focus on supporting residents and families.
To file a complaint, contact the Atlanta Ombudsman office at 404-627-1057 or visit the Georgia Ombudsman’s website. Ombudsmen can help ensure the facility addresses your concerns and provide additional resources to resolve the situation.
Speak with an Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
If the abuse or neglect caused harm, or if the facility continues to ignore the problem, consult a lawyer who handles nursing home cases. An attorney can help you investigate further, hold the facility accountable, and recover compensation for injuries or losses. In addition to financial compensation, lawsuits often serve as a powerful deterrent, encouraging facilities to implement better policies and prioritize resident care.
Understanding Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse
When many people think of Georgia, the first place that comes to mind is the bustling metropolis that is Atlanta. When it comes to living here, residents enjoy the abundant sunshine and tepid weather that never dips too long into the cold. With a reasonable cost of living and restaurants galore, it’s no wonder that people flock to this thriving city. Thanks to easy access to nature, parks, and other relaxing ventures, Atlanta has gradually grown as one of the prime locations in the country for retirees, with its senior population steadily increasing.
However, as the demand for elder care grows, many facilities have struggled to maintain acceptable standards.
Some nursing homes in the Atlanta area, especially those owned by for-profit corporations, prioritize profit margins over patient care. This shift has led to widespread issues of neglect, underfunding, and understaffing. While many families search for the best care for their loved ones, they must evaluate the services offered and the facility’s ratings and reviews from regulatory bodies like Medicare and the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH).
Statistics on Nursing Homes in Atlanta
Georgia, the ninth largest state in the U.S., is home to a rapidly growing retirement-age population. This surge has put significant pressure on nursing homes, leading to overcrowding, understaffing, and subpar health inspections. AARP reports that Georgia nursing homes rank poorly in key areas like staffing ratios and resident outcomes.
There are 108 nursing homes in Atlanta and the surrounding metro area, with 65 located within 25 miles of the city center. Despite the high number of facilities, only 16 nursing homes in the region achieve above average ratings, according to Medicare’s Care Compare.
While Atlanta’s costs are higher than other parts of Georgia, they remain lower than the national average. Families can expect to pay approximately $3400 in monthly for nursing homes care, though financial assistance programs like Georgia’s ABD Medicaid, SOURCE Waiver, and PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) can help eligible residents offset these expenses.
Nursing Homes in Atlanta
Did you know that you can review nursing home ratings, health inspection scores, and more through Medicare’s Care Compare website?
This tool provides families with essential data to evaluate a facility’s safety and performance history.
The following is a list of nursing homes in Atlanta. Families are encouraged to research these facilities and check updated ratings on Medicare:
- Legacy Transitional Care & Rehabilitation
460 Auburn Avenue N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30312 - The A.G. Rhodes Home
350 Boulevard, S.E.
Atlanta, GA 30312 - Westminster Commons
560 St Charles Ave, NE
Atlanta, GA 30308 - Sadie G. Mays Health & Rehabilitation Center
1821 Anderson Avenue NW
Atlanta, GA 30314 - Pruitthealth—Virginia Park
1000 Briarcliff Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30306 - Reliable Health & Rehab at Lakewood
1980 Arrow Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30310 - Signature Healthcare of Buckhead
54 Peachtree Park Drive N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30309 - Terraces at Peachtree Hills Place
229 Peachtree Hills Avenue, NE
Atlanta, GA 30305 - East Lake Arbor
304 Fifth Avenue
Decatur, GA 30030 - A.G. Rhodes Home Wesley Woods
1819 Clifton Road, N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30329 - Budd Terrace at Wesley Woods
1833 Clifton Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30329 - Crestview Health & Rehab Center
2800 Springdale Road
Atlanta, GA 30315 - Fulton Center for Rehabilitation
2850 Springdale Road SW
Atlanta, GA 30315 - Bonterra Transitional Care & Rehabilitation
2801 Felton Drive
East Point, GA 30344 - Pruitthealth—West Atlanta
2645 Whiting Street N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30318 - Nurse Care of Buckhead
2920 Pharr Court South NW
Atlanta, GA 30305 - The William Breman Jewish Home
3150 Howell Mill Road N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30327 - North Decatur Health and Rehabilitation Center
2787 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30033 - Manor Care Rehabilitation Center—Decatur
2722 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30033 - Healthcare at College Park, LLC
1765 Temple Avenue
College Park, GA 30337 - Pruitthealth—Decatur
3200 Panthersville Road
Decatur, GA 30034 - Lenbrook Nursing Home
3747 Peachtree Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30319 - Glenwood Health and Rehabilitation Center
4115 Glenwood Rd
Decatur, GA 30032 - Briarwood Health and Rehabilitation Center
3888 Lavista Road
Tucker, GA 30084 - Delmar Gardens of Smyrna
404 King Springs Village Pkwy
Smyrna, GA 30082 - Pruitthealth—Brookhaven
3535 Ashton Woods Drive NE
Atlanta, GA 30319 - Dunwoody Health and Rehabilitation Center
5470 Meridian Mark Road, Bldg E
Atlanta, GA 30342 - Sandy Springs Health and Rehabilitation
1500 S Johnson Ferry Road
Atlanta, GA 30319 - Lake City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center LLC
2055 Rex Road
Lake City, GA 30260 - Christian City Rehabilitation Center
7300 Lester Road
Union City, GA 30291 - Powder Springs Center for Nursing & Healing
3460 Powder Springs Road
Powder Springs, GA 30127 - Roswell Nursing & Rehab Center
1109 Green Street
Roswell, GA 30075 - Douglasville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
4028 Hwy 5
Douglasville, GA 30135
Some Atlanta facilities, such as Fulton Center for Rehabilitation have been added to a federal list of deficient nursing homes due to confirmed abuse and violations. Fulton Center incurred $88,000 in fines, while Dunwoody Health and Rehabilitation received fines exceeding $320,000. These fines indicate systemic issues that families should consider when choosing a facility.
Atlanta Assisted Living Facilities
Fulton County is home to many assisted living communities designed for residents who do not require intensive medical care. While assisted living facilities generally provide lower acuity care they still owe a duty of care to keep residents safe.
Some of the Atlanta area’s larger assisted living facilities include:
- CORSO Atlanta: 3200 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, GA
- Village Park of Alpharetta: 12300 Morris Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Summerset: 3711 Benjamin E. Mays Drive S.W., Atlanta, GA
- Inspired Living at Alpharetta: 11450 Morris Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Village Park Milton: 555 Willis Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Sparks Inn Retirement Center: 7290 Lester Road, Union City, GA
- Tapestry House Assisted Living: 2725 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Arbor Terrace at Crabapple: 12200 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Brighton Gardens of Buckhead: 3088 Lenox Road, Atlanta, GA
- Vitality Living Milton: 2925 Webb Road, Milton, GA
- Sunrise of Ivey Ridge: 2950 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta, GA
- Mansions at Alpharetta Senior Living & Memory: 3675 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta, GA
- Mansions at Sandy Springs, AL, and Memory Care: 7300 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA
- Addington Place of Alpharetta: 762 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA
- The Phoenix at Milton: 13943 Highway 9 North, Milton, GA
- Sunrise of Johns Creek: 11405 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA
Types of Lawsuits and Damages in Atlanta Elder Abuse Cases
When families discover that a loved one has suffered neglect or abuse in a nursing home, legal action can provide justice and accountability. Nursing homes must provide a safe environment and proper treatment for all residents, and when they fail, families have the right to hold them responsible. In Georgia, several types of legal claims may apply depending on the situation, each with specific legal thresholds and requirements.
Negligence Claims
Negligence occurs when a nursing home fails to provide reasonable care, resulting in harm to a resident. Common examples include failing to monitor fall-risk residents, neglecting to reposition bedridden residents (leading to bed sores), or ignoring signs of malnutrition or dehydration. Georgia law requires nursing homes to uphold a standard of care tailored to each resident’s needs. Families may pursue a negligence claim if the facility’s actions—or lack of action—cause harm.
Medical Malpractice Claims
Medical malpractice occurs when licensed healthcare professionals, such as doctors or nurses, provide substandard medical treatment that causes an injury or worsens a resident’s condition. Failing to diagnose an infection or improperly administering medication could meet the threshold for a medical malpractice claim. Under Georgia law, these cases typically require expert testimony to establish that the healthcare provider breached the standard of care.
Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death claims arise when nursing home negligence or abuse leads to a resident’s death. Georgia’s Wrongful Death Act allows certain family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, to file these claims. Families can seek compensation for the value of the deceased’s life and medical and funeral expenses. Wrongful death lawsuits also send a powerful message that facilities cannot ignore their duty to protect residents.
Breach of Contract Claims
When families admit a loved one to a nursing home, they often sign a contract outlining the facility’s obligations. If the nursing home violates the terms of the agreement—such as failing to meet promised staffing levels or not providing proper care—families can file a breach of contract claim. These cases emphasize the facility’s failure to fulfill the agreements it made when admitting the resident.
Intentional Tort Claims
In cases where staff intentionally harm a resident, families may file intentional tort claims. Examples include physical assault, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. Unlike negligence claims, intentional torts involve deliberate actions that directly harm the resident. Georgia law allows victims or their families to seek damages for the pain and suffering caused by these intentional acts.
Resident Rights Violations
The Georgia Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities ensures that residents have the right to safe living conditions, dignity, and freedom from abuse. If a facility violates these rights, families can take legal action to hold the nursing home accountable.
What Compensation Can You Receive in an Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Case?
Families filing lawsuits against nursing homes may pursue two primary types of damages: compensatory and punitive.
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages reimburse families for losses directly related to the harm caused by the nursing home. These include:
- Economic damages—medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and funeral or burial expenses; and
- Noneconomic damages—pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.
For example, compensatory damages could cover hospital bills and the physical pain endured if a resident suffered severe injuries from a preventable fall. Georgia law does not cap compensatory damages, allowing families to seek full reimbursement for the harm caused.
Punitive Damages
Georgia law permits punitive damages in cases where the nursing home’s actions exhibit willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression, or conscious indifference to consequences. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse families, punitive damages punish the facility and deter similar behavior. For example, punitive damages may apply if a nursing home knowingly understaffed shifts to save money, resulting in widespread neglect.
Georgia usually caps punitive damages at $250,000, but there are exceptions for intentional harm or actions motivated by financial gain. Consulting with an attorney can help families understand whether punitive damages apply in their case.
How Does Georgia Law Protect Nursing Home Residents?
Georgia has implemented strict regulations to safeguard nursing home residents from neglect and abuse. The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) oversees the licensing and regulation of long-term care facilities, conducting inspections to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Facilities must adhere to minimum staffing requirements, infection control protocols, and care standards tailored to residents’ needs.
The Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (part of the 1987 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) also sets nationwide standards for nursing homes that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding. These standards require facilities to provide necessary services to maintain residents’ physical and mental well-being. When nursing homes fail to meet these obligations, families can file complaints with the DCH or pursue legal action.
What Are the Most Common Health Inspection Violations in Atlanta Nursing Homes?
Atlanta nursing homes frequently face health inspection violations, many of which expose residents to unnecessary risks. These violations often stem from understaffing, mismanagement, and cost-cutting practices, creating unsafe conditions for vulnerable residents.
One recurring issue involves hygiene and sanitation failures. Many facilities fail to provide residents with clean bedding, clothing, and restrooms, leading to unsanitary living conditions that increase the risk of infections. For instance, inspectors have cited nursing homes for leaving soiled linens in resident rooms for extended periods, exposing residents to harmful bacteria. Additionally, some nursing homes have been cited for their failure to provide adequate tools such as trolleys or reclining shower chairs to ensure that all residents had equal opportunity to shower. For example, one facility was cited after it was discovered that six residents did not receive showers as scheduled due to the lack of appropriate equipment.
Another significant concern is food safety violations. Many Atlanta nursing homes fail to properly label or store food, resulting in serving expired items to residents. Improper food handling poses health risks, as meals often reach unsafe temperatures during preparation or transportation. In one instance, inspectors recorded a batch of baked chicken at an internal temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit, well below the safe serving level of temperature of 135 degrees. Failure to keep food at the appropriate temperature can lead to illness caused by bacteria such as salmonella, which may compromise the health and recovery of the elderly.
Facilities often neglect adequate nutrition and hydration, leaving residents at risk of malnutrition and dehydration. Reports frequently document meals that lack proper portions, nutritional balance, or dietary accommodations for residents with special needs. Inspectors have also noted instances where residents received limited water access, particularly during staff shortages or emergencies.
Medication errors represent another widespread issue. Nursing homes often fail to follow proper protocols, such as administering medications at the correct time or ensuring residents receive the appropriate dosage. These mistakes can lead to serious health complications, especially for residents with chronic conditions requiring consistent treatment.
Physical safety hazards are also common in Atlanta nursing homes. Inspectors regularly find loose handrails, broken equipment, or cluttered walkways, which increase the risk of falls and injuries. These preventable hazards often result from poor facility maintenance or lack of management oversight.
State and federal oversight are critical in identifying and addressing these issues. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) conduct routine inspections to ensure compliance with regulations. Families can access public records of inspection results through Medicare’s Care Compare tool to identify facilities with repeated violations.
If you believe your loved one’s injuries stem from unsafe practices or a facility’s failure to meet state and federal regulations, you may have grounds for legal action. Contact Senior Justice Law Firm to learn how we can help.
How Do I Report Elder Abuse in Atlanta?
Suspicions of neglect or abuse in a nursing home require immediate attention to protect your loved one and prevent further harm. Many families begin by contacting the facility to raise concerns, but involving outside organizations is critical to ensure proper investigation and accountability.
Atlanta residents have access to several resources dedicated to addressing elder abuse and neglect. The Division of Aging Services within the in the Georgia Department of Human Services oversees the state’s ombudsman program, which is a government mandated organization that investigates alleged nursing home abuse and advocates on behalf of the elderly. You can file a complaint online at https://www.georgiaombudsman.org/contact-us/ or locate the nearest office through their website.
The Atlanta area also maintains its own ombudsman office at 225 Cameron Road, McDonough, Georgia 30253, which you can reach via phone at 404-627-1057. The local ombudsman team offers guidance and support to families, ensuring nursing homes address complaints effectively. This independent oversight can help resolve concerns that the facility might otherwise dismiss.
Contacting Adult Protective Services (APS) is another vital step for urgent situations involving serious harm. APS works to protect vulnerable adults by investigating allegations of neglect or abuse and intervening when necessary. The APS hotline, 1-866-552-4464, provides immediate assistance for families dealing with unsafe conditions.
State oversight through the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) adds another layer of accountability. The DCH inspects nursing homes, enforces compliance with state and federal regulations, and investigates formal complaints. Families can contact the DCH at 1-800-878-6442 to report concerns or learn more about filing a complaint online.
In addition to reaching out to these organizations, families benefit from consulting with our Atlanta elder abuse attorneys. Legal representation helps ensure that facilities are held accountable for harm caused by neglect or abuse. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process of gathering evidence, filing claims, and seeking justice for your loved one.
Rely on Our Experienced Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
The day that you learn about the abuse or neglect that your loved one has endured in a nursing home may feel like the worst day of your life—and the Atlanta nursing home neglect attorneys at Senior Justice Law Firm understand that this sensitive time is a stressful one. This is why we leverage our years of experience in elder abuse and neglect cases to remove the burden from your shoulders and secure the financial compensation and justice that you deserve.
If you suspect that your loved one has suffered at the hands of a Georgia nursing home, we would be glad to speak with you free of charge during a consultation so that we can establish a strategy for moving forward.
Reach out at 470-598-1515 or use our messaging tool to speak to us.
Our Atlanta nursing home abuse attorneys also serve the following areas:
