Putting your loved one in a nursing home can be a tough decision. Nursing homes in greater Buffalo are obliged to provide the best possible care to residents, but they do not always meet that obligation. The risk of nursing home abuse and neglect may leave you concerned about the level of care your loved one will receive.

A recent case of alleged sexual abuse involving a nursing home resident has prompted New York state officials to launch an investigation into a Buffalo nursing home. The perpetrator at the time of the incident was an assistant director of nursing, who has since resigned. Officials from the nursing home were unable to provide any information regarding the incident. The former assistant director of nursing claims that he was assaulted by the resident, while the resident claims to have been bitten by the former staff member.

Without any crucial evidence, both statements are hearsay. However, had camera equipment been installed at the time of the incident, the footage would have told the real story.

Back in February, camera footage was used to prosecute three nurses responsible for the death of an 89-year-old resident in Georgia. As the resident called out for help while suffering from respiratory distress, the three nurses were seen laughing and completely ignoring the man’s needs.

Elder abuse is far too widespread across the United States

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that roughly one in every 10 elders older than 60 suffer abuse and neglect each year. Some types of abuse include:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Abandonment
• Financial abuse

However, the above statistics may not represent the full number of residents who suffer abuse and neglect. Many of these incidents go under the radar because residents are afraid or unable to report them.

What you can do to protect your loved ones

When placed in the care of a nursing home, your loved one may be all but defenseless. That’s why it’s important to document incidents of abuse and neglect, especially if you suspect that something isn’t right. If your loved one is afraid to speak up, or if nursing home staff deny that any abuse or neglect has occurred, camera footage doesn’t lie.

Not only can video footage be used to prosecute responsible parties, but your attorney can also use it as evidence in a lawsuit against the nursing home. That’s why your first course of action should be to consult with an experienced Buffalo nursing home abuse attorney who will fight aggressively to help you and your family seek justice.

It’s important you act fast. The statute of limitations for nursing home abuse cases in New York State is three years. Don’t hesitate to contact the Law Offices of James Morris and find out how we can help you.