Nursing home neglect is a heartbreaking issue that many families face when their loved ones enter long-term care. While these facilities are supposed to provide a safe and caring environment, neglect can occur when staff fail to meet the necessary standards of care. The consequences of nursing home neglect extend far beyond physical injury — they also have a significant financial and emotional impact on families. Understanding the true cost of nursing home neglect is essential for families who may be facing this difficult situation and seeking justice for their loved ones.
What Is Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing home neglect happens when staff members fail to provide the proper care and attention that residents need. This neglect can manifest in various ways, including:
- Failing to provide proper nutrition or hydration
- Neglecting hygiene needs, such as bathing or oral care
- Ignoring medical conditions or failing to administer medication
- Leaving patients in unsafe conditions or unattended for extended periods
- Failing to prevent falls or injuries
While some instances of neglect are unintentional, others stem from poor training, understaffing or deliberate negligence. Regardless of the cause, the effects on residents and their families can be devastating.
Financial Impact of Nursing Home Neglect
The financial toll of nursing home neglect can be severe, both for the victim and their family. If a loved one is neglected in a nursing home, the costs associated with their care can quickly spiral out of control.
1. Medical Expenses and Treatment Costs
One of the primary financial burdens of nursing home neglect is the cost of medical treatment. Injuries caused by neglect — such as falls, bedsores, infections or untreated medical conditions — often require extensive medical intervention. This can include emergency room visits, hospitalizations, surgeries and ongoing care from specialists. These costs can quickly add up, leaving families with significant medical bills.
In some cases, the injuries may be so severe that the individual requires long-term care, rehabilitation or even a move to a different facility that can provide the necessary care. These added costs can be overwhelming, especially if the victim’s family is already paying for nursing home care.
2. Loss of Income and Future Earning Potential
If the individual affected by nursing home neglect was employed prior to the incident, the family may also face a loss of income. In some cases, the individual may be unable to return to work or may need ongoing assistance to perform daily tasks. This loss of income can place a significant financial strain on families already dealing with medical expenses and emotional stress.
Additionally, if the victim’s condition worsens due to neglect, they may be entitled to compensation for the loss of future earning potential. Calculating these damages often requires the assistance of an expert in economic loss calculations, which can further add to the overall financial burden.
3. Legal Fees and Litigation Costs
Pursuing legal action against a nursing home for neglect often requires the services of an experienced personal injury or malpractice attorney. While many attorneys work on a contingency fee basis (only getting paid if you win the case), the costs of litigation — such as expert witness fees, court costs and other expenses — can quickly add up. Legal battles can be lengthy and expensive, which may add additional strain on families already struggling financially.
Emotional Impact of Nursing Home Neglect
While the financial costs of nursing home neglect are significant, the emotional toll on families is even more devastating. The emotional distress experienced by both the victim and their loved ones can have lasting effects.
1. Feelings of Guilt and Betrayal
When a loved one enters a nursing home, family members often do so with the expectation that their relative will be cared for and treated with dignity. Discovering that neglect has occurred can lead to feelings of guilt, shame and betrayal. Family members may blame themselves for not recognizing the signs of neglect earlier or for trusting the facility that ultimately failed to provide proper care.
2. Stress and Anxiety
Caring for a loved one who has been neglected can cause immense stress and anxiety. Family members may find themselves overwhelmed by the need to monitor the victim’s care, make important medical decisions and pursue legal action. The constant worry about their loved one’s well-being can take a toll on mental health, leading to depression, anxiety and feelings of helplessness.
3. Damaged Relationships
Nursing home neglect can strain family relationships, as members may have different opinions on how to handle the situation. Some family members may disagree on whether to pursue legal action, which can lead to tension and conflict. The added stress of navigating the complexities of nursing home neglect cases can sometimes drive a wedge between family members.
What Can Families Do?
If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing nursing home neglect, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Start by documenting any signs of neglect, such as unexplained injuries, poor hygiene or emotional withdrawal. Seek medical attention for your loved one and consider reporting the issue to the appropriate authorities. It’s also essential to consult with a skilled attorney who specializes in nursing home neglect cases to understand your legal rights and options.
Contact a Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Lawyer in Illinois
The true cost of nursing home neglect extends far beyond the physical harm caused to the victim. Families face substantial financial burdens, including medical expenses, loss of income and legal costs. At the same time, the emotional impact can be profound, with family members experiencing guilt, stress and damaged relationships. If you suspect that a loved one is the victim of nursing home neglect, it’s essential to seek legal help immediately to ensure they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we are dedicated to helping families affected by nursing home neglect fight for the compensation and justice they deserve. Contact us today by calling (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation. Call us today to learn more about your legal options.
