Are Bed Sores a Sign of Elder Abuse?

When you put your loved one in a nursing home, you may have done so because you couldn’t give them the time and attention they needed and deserved. You may visit them every day, but between your family and a full-time job, or even multiple jobs, you just wouldn’t be able to care for them right. 

You thought the nursing home would do a better job, but now, your loved one has some serious bed sores that need treatment. But are bed sores a sign of elder abuse? Talk to your Rockford personal injury lawyer about your situation so you can ensure your loved one is safe now, not after the damage has worsened. 

What Causes Bed Sores?

Bed sores, also known as pressure sores, are areas of damaged skin, which can become infected. That’s dangerous for many bedridden patients, especially if they’re already in poor health. These sores happen when someone is left in one position for too long. 

These sores are often caused by neglect. Many people who are unable to walk or move on their own may be stuck in one position for too long if they’re not moved regularly. Unfortunately, that means your loved one may have been neglected if they developed bed sores. 

Nursing home staff are supposed to move your loved one regularly, so sores can’t develop. If you find your loved one is suffering from this painful condition, your elder abuse attorney may be able to help you seek compensation for their suffering. 

Protecting Your Loved One from Elder Abuse 

If you believe your loved one is experiencing elder abuse, you have options to protect their health and safety with a lawyer’s guidance. Your elder abuse lawyer can first help you identify whether the bed sores your family member has experienced are due to neglect. If they are, your elder abuse lawyer can help you get them out of the neglectful care and into a hospital or safer facility. 

Once your family is safe and sound, you may need to turn your focus to a lawsuit on their behalf. They may be due economic and non-economic damages for their pain and suffering, so reach out for guidance on how to get their max compensation. 

Call an Illinois Elder Abuse Lawyer for Help 

When you suspect your loved one is suffering through elder abuse, it can be difficult to act. You may need help getting compensated for your loved one’s losses, and you may now be worried about their quality of life. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to get answers, especially if you’re not sure whether bed sores are a sign of elder abuse. 

The good news is, the lawyers at Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC can help you recover from your losses. If you’re struggling to get compensation following your family member’s elder abuse, your nursing home abuse lawyer can help you get answers, starting with a free consultation. 

Ready to seek the help your loved one needs? Reach out by calling 815-656-4600 or by filling out the online contact form below.