If you have identified some of the many signs of nursing home abuse in Florida, such as depression, changes in behavior, loss of interest in visits, unexplained bruises, sores, tears in clothing, or other signs of nursing home abuse, it is important to open a dialogue with your loved one. If there is a change occurring with your loved one on any level, you first should discuss your concerns with your family member.

It may be an awkward and embarrassing conversation for your elderly loved one, but the truth must come out so that the abuse stops and the abuser is identified. It is best to explain to your loved one your concerns and be straightforward. Ask him or her if anything is wrong, or if something is going on in the nursing home in which he or she needs your assistance.

Your loved one might want to talk to you about the abuse; however, don’t be alarmed if your loved one claims not to remember or doesn’t want to talk about the physical signs of abuse. Your elderly family member may be too embarrassed or afraid to talk about what’s happening. If your loved one is reluctant to talk about your suspicions or appears afraid or embarrassed to discuss the situation, your suspicions may be right.

After you discuss your concerns with your loved one, or if your loved one is not mentally capable of discussing the problem, you should report your concerns to the nursing home director or facility manager and to the proper authorities. When you have these suspicions, make sure you take the following steps:

  • Talk to your loved one first.
  • Report your concerns to the nursing home’s administration.
  • File a complaint with Florida’s Adult Protective Services Department.
  • Contact a Sarasota nursing home abuse attorney.
  • Call the police if you have reason to believe your loved one’s life is in imminent danger.
  • Remove your loved one if you have reason to believe he or she is in danger.

If you suspect your loved one is being abused at a Florida nursing home, call Mallard Perez at 888-409-3805 and talk with a skilled Sarasota nursing home abuse lawyer to make sure you are taking the right steps. Your elderly loved one most likely needs your help and it is important that you are his or her voice and that you advocate on your loved one’s behalf. For help and guidance, please call us and request a free copy of our book The Florida Nursing Home Abuse Handbook: Ways to Recognize & Prevent Abuse and Neglect.

Damian Mallard, Esq.
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Board Certified Sarasota Personal Injury Attorney