Finding out that a loved one was abused or neglected in a nursing home can come as a shocking and emotionally devastating blow to you and your family. However, it is important to keep in mind what your loved one went through during that time. They may not be able to articulate well what happened, or they may be so emotionally traumatized that they simply cannot discuss it.
Getting your loved one adequate support after learning of nursing home abuse or neglect is crucial to helping them to heal after such a distressing event. Additionally, information gleaned from support networks about what happened may also help in a case against the nursing home for justice and compensation.
One-on-One Therapy
One of the most effective forms of emotional support after nursing home abuse or neglect is one-on-one therapy with a qualified therapist. Seek out a counselor who has experience working not only with elderly individuals but also with individuals who have been neglected or abused by a nursing home or caregiver. If your loved one has special needs, has limited communication ability, or is non-verbal, look for therapists who are able to work with these unique conditions.
Group Support
Group support can be difficult for nursing home abuse victims; however, it can also be therapeutic to listen to the stories of others who have been in similar situations. Even if your loved one does not participate and chooses not to tell their story (or if they are unable to), group support can allow nursing home abuse victims to feel loved, supported, and reinforce that your loved one is not alone. Seek out groups specifically for nursing home abuse victims or groups for victims of caregiver abuse.
Legal Support
An experienced injury attorney can provide your loved one with legal advocacy after nursing home abuse or neglect. However, obtaining records from therapists, group support, and similar entities may be limited due to doctor-patient confidentiality. Your attorney will let you know what evidence you may or may not be able to obtain.
There is a good chance with comprehensive support and care, your loved one may open up and be able to provide a statement. Your lawyer will work with you to help you determine how best to provide support to your loved one, depending on his or her unique needs, and what can be done from a legal standpoint to hold the nursing home accountable for their abuse or neglect.
Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC Today
At Mazow | McCullough, PC, we have experience working with the families of abused or neglected nursing home patients and can provide you with the guidance you need during this challenging time. Our goal is to help you discover tools that will best help your family and your loved one after an abuse or neglect experience.
Call us today for an appointment to explore your legal options at (855) 693-9084.
