Not Your Typical Elder Law Firm

How common is elder abuse in long-term care facilities?

On Behalf of | Feb 28, 2023 | Long-term Care Facility Neglect |

In 2017, researchers with the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a review of studies and statistics from countries around the globe related to the care of older adults residing in long-term care facilities and other community residential settings. Their findings were appalling

According to the review, one out of every six older adults living in community settings had experienced abuse or neglect over the previous year before the study commenced. Perhaps even more shockingly, two out of every three staffers at such facilities admitted to committing abusive or neglectful acts against residents within that time period. 

Going with your gut

By understanding just how common elder abuse is in nursing homes, long-term care facilities and other community residential settings, loved ones can feel more empowered to act on their intuition in the event that something truly seems to be amiss. 

It is understandably easy to dismiss one’s concerns as “probably an overreaction.” Yet, when it comes to elder abuse, the statistics are so damning that if a loved one believes that their loved one is suffering in preventable ways, chances are good that they are. 

As a result, it is important to explore your legal rights if you are concerned that a loved one is being abused or neglected at their residence. A skilled lawyer can look into your loved one’s situation discreetly in order to uncover the truth. Once you have access to all the facts you need to make an informed decision, you can decide whether or not to take any action on behalf of your loved one’s well-being. 

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