Over the past week the media has been heavily reporting on various instances of nursing home negligence that allegedly occurred in the wake of Hurricane Irma. One particularly egregious incident reportedly occurred in a Hollywood, Florida nursing home three days after Hurricane Irma made landfall in Florida. According to the Miami Herald, eight elderly residents of The Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills passed away after suffering respiratory arrest or cardiac distress.
Can the Nursing Home be Held Liable?
Here in Florida, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by a loved one if his/her family member’s premature passing was caused by someone else’s negligent or wrongful act. These civil lawsuits can even be filed if the responsible party has already been criminally prosecuted for their negligent or wrongful act.
Tips for Identifying Nursing Home Neglect
Sometimes the elderly are not able to stand up for themselves when they are being neglected. Therefore, we all have a responsibility to keep an eye out for elder abuse and neglect and to report our suspicions when we suspect that something is amiss. Some common signs of nursing home neglect to be on the lookout for include:
- Poor personal hygiene,
- Bedsores or pressure ulcers,
- Unexpected weight loss,
- Pulling away from friends and family, and
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or broken bones.
Reach Out to Us Today for Help
Do you know a nursing home resident who was injured or killed by someone else’s negligent or wrongful act? If you suspect that the elder is in immediate danger call 911 now and then report your suspicions to the Department of Elder Affairs so that the incident can be properly investigated. Next, contact Piccin & Glynn, Attorneys at Law, toll free at 352-558-8480 to schedule a free consultation during which you will be able to discuss your legal options with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Resources:
miamiherald.com/news/local/article173437936.html
elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/report_abuse.php