Unfortunately, not all assisted living facilities provide the same level of care. Even facilities with excellent reviews can have problems with neglect and abuse. If you suspect an assisted living facility is mistreating your loved one, you have the right to report potential neglect and abuse. Understandably, you might have questions on how to report negligence in an assisted living facility. Please contact the experienced assisted living abuse and neglect lawyers at Senior Justice Law Firm for assistance.
What Is Negligence in an Assisted Living Facility?
Negligence in an assisted living facility can take many forms, from neglect of basic needs to physical or emotional abuse. Nutritional deficiencies, bedsores, poor hygiene, and falls are just a few red flags that can point to negligence on the part of the assisted living facility.
Preparation for Reporting Negligence at an Assisted Living Facility
It’s crucial to watch for potential red flags when you suspect something might be amiss. Reporting suspected negligence is vital. Here are some steps you can take to report negligence in an assisted living facility:
- Gather evidence. Take note of any specific instances of neglect or abuse, including dates, times, and witnesses. Keep any physical evidence, such as bruises or torn clothing.
- Speak with the staff. Bring your concerns to the attention of the facility’s staff, including the administrator, and ask for an explanation.
- Contact the state regulatory agency. Every state has an agency that oversees assisted living facilities. Look up the contact information for the agency in your state and report your concerns. You can also report on the negligence of an assisted living facility to your local ombudsman office.
- File a complaint. Contact the facility’s management and file a formal complaint. Be sure to include all relevant information, such as what happened, when it happened, who you believe to be responsible, where it happened, etc.
- Contact a lawyer. If your loved one has been seriously injured or the facility is not adequately addressing your concerns, it’s best to contact an experienced assisted living attorney at Senior Justice Law Firm.
Try to act fast when reporting negligence in an assisted living facility. The longer you wait, the greater the risk to your loved one’s safety and well-being. Remember to document everything, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed. Patients have rights in long-term facilities, especially in Medicare and Medicaid-certified facilities. Protections exist under both federal and state law.
Provide any necessary information when filing a complaint and follow up with the state regulatory agency and the facility’s management to ensure they take your complaint seriously and that appropriate action is taken.
Contact an Assisted Living Facility Negligence Lawyer
If you have questions on how to report negligence in an assisted living facility, contact Senior Justice Law Firm. We focus solely on elder abuse and neglect cases. We know what red flags to look for and what legal steps to take to help you get justice for your family member. Reporting negligence in an assisted living facility is crucial for the safety and well-being of your loved one. By following the steps outlined above, you can take action to protect them and hold the facility accountable for its actions. Schedule an initial consultation with our legal team to learn more.
