Has A Family Member Fallen At A Nursing Home In Kentucky Or Ohio?
Nursing homes are responsible for the safety and security of their residents. Falling is a serious problem for elderly residents, and patients who wander around or off the grounds without supervision are likely to injure themselves.
Our teams at Crandall & Pera Law comprises experienced attorneys and registered nurses who understand the dangers of wandering, elopement and falls. We help families throughout Ohio and Kentucky whose loved ones were harmed because of negligent nursing home staff and administrators.
Elopement Vs. Wandering
When a resident “elopes,” he or she has left the grounds of a nursing home. “Wandering” occurs when a patient moves unsupervised around the nursing home. Both scenarios are dangerous, as wandering residents may lack the cognitive abilities to keep themselves from harm, and residents who elope are usually unable to care for themselves without help. These residents need supervision to ensure that they do not trip, fall or find themselves in physical danger.
Why Falling Is A Serious Problem
Because nursing home residents are primarily elderly, a fall could have far more catastrophic results for them. Falls may happen:
- Because of an unsafe living environment
- When furniture is moved in the nursing home, making it more difficult for patients to move, or confusing patients with sight-related or cognitive difficulties
- Because spilled water or liquids are left on the floor
- Because of defective bedrails that do not keep patients from falling out of bed
- When steps or walkways are uneven or have suffered damage
- If a resident is being physically abused by another resident or member of the staff
- To residents suffering from undiagnosed illnesses or from malnutrition or dehydration
- If a resident’s mobility devices such as walkers or canes are broken or defective
- If handrails are unsecured, broken or defective
Elderly residents risk severe bruising, broken bones and fractures if they fall. These risks increase if they are wandering around the nursing home without supervision, or if they have managed to leave the nursing home unattended. Negligent or overworked staff and poor security measures are just some of the reasons residents fall.
At Crandall & Pera Law, we can help your family members after negligent care has placed them in danger. We have procured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for the victims we represent throughout Kentucky and Ohio. We work hand in hand with our clients, visiting nursing homes and building cases with the help of outside medical experts whenever necessary. We offer our clients support and guidance through difficult times.
Learn How We Can Help Today
Nursing home residents have a right to be safe and secure where they live. If you suspect your family member’s fall is related to nursing home neglect or abuse, please call Crandall & Pera Law at 855-444-6651 or fill out our online contact form. We proudly serve clients throughout Ohio and Kentucky.