Serving Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau County, Westchester, Rockland and Suffolk County
Deciding to place a loved one in a nursing home is one of the most difficult and emotional decisions a family can make. Nursing homes are entrusted to provide compassionate, professional care while ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of their residents. Unfortunately, cases of nursing home neglect and abuse are far too common, putting some of society’s most vulnerable individuals in jeopardy.
At Leitner Varughese Warywoda, we are relentless advocates for the rights of nursing home residents across New York City and Long Island. Our attorneys have decades of experience, a proven track record of success, and a deep commitment to seeking justice for families affected by nursing home negligence.
The Duty of Care in Nursing Homes
Nursing homes accept residents with the promise of providing adequate care and protection. This responsibility, known as the "duty of care," includes:
Providing proper nutrition and hydration.
Administering and managing medications accurately.
Preventing falls, pressure ulcers (bedsores), and other preventable injuries.
Safeguarding residents from abuse, neglect, and emotional harm.
Despite the existence of federal and state regulations, such as the New York State Public Health Law, violations occur daily. These breaches can result in devastating injuries, chronic conditions, or even wrongful death.
Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Family members must stay vigilant to detect potential neglect or abuse. The following signs are often red flags that a resident is not receiving proper care:
1. Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers)
Bedsores are painful wounds caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, often due to immobility. These injuries are preventable with proper care, including frequent repositioning, adequate hydration, and skin monitoring. The presence of bedsores often indicates neglect.
2. Injuries of Unknown Origin
Unexplained bruises, fractures, or other injuries may suggest physical abuse or a lack of supervision. Nursing homes are required by law to investigate and report these incidents to the proper authorities.
3. Falls and Fractures
Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable to falls, which can lead to serious injuries like broken hips or head trauma. Nursing homes have a duty to implement measures such as bed alarms, non-slip flooring, and adequate supervision to minimize fall risks.
4. Malnutrition and Dehydration
A sudden decline in weight, energy levels, or overall health may indicate that a resident is not receiving adequate food or hydration. Malnutrition and dehydration are often signs of systemic neglect.
5. Emotional or Sexual Abuse
Changes in behavior, withdrawal, fearfulness, or unusual anxiety can signal emotional or sexual abuse. Tragically, incapacitated residents with conditions like dementia are particularly vulnerable to such violations.
Steps Families Can Take to Protect Their Loved Ones
If you suspect your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, it’s important to act quickly. Here are steps you can take to safeguard their well-being:
Visit Frequently - Regular visits allow you to monitor your loved one’s condition and observe the quality of care being provided.
Communicate with Staff - Establishing a good rapport with nursing home staff can help you stay informed about your loved one’s treatment and identify potential concerns early.
Document Evidence - Take photographs of injuries, keep detailed records of medical reports, and write down conversations with staff. These records can be invaluable in building a case.
Report Concerns - File complaints with the nursing home administration and report incidents to New York State regulatory agencies, such as the Department of Health.
Consult an Attorney - An experienced nursing home attorney can investigate claims, preserve evidence, and help you pursue justice.
Legal Protections for Nursing Home Residents in New York
Under New York law, nursing home residents are entitled to a range of rights, including:
Respect, dignity, and a comfortable living environment.
Freedom from physical, verbal, and emotional abuse.
The right to privacy in communications and personal care.
Access to their medical records and clear explanations of care plans.
The ability to voice complaints without fear of retaliation.
If these rights are violated, families have the legal authority to hold nursing homes accountable through civil litigation.
Why Choose Leitner Varughese Warywoda
When it comes to seeking justice for nursing home neglect, experience matters. At Leitner Varughese Warywoda, we are recognized leaders in the field of nursing home abuse litigation. Here’s why families trust us:
Proven Results: We’ve recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for victims of nursing home negligence.
Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the emotional and financial toll these cases take on families. We provide personalized, empathetic legal representation.
No Upfront Fees: Our contingency fee structure means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Real Cases, Real Justice
Our attorneys have successfully represented families across New York City and Long Island in holding nursing homes accountable. Examples of outcomes include:
A substantial settlement for a family whose loved one suffered fatal infections due to untreated bedsores.
Justice for an elderly resident injured in an unreported fall caused by inadequate supervision.
Compensation for a family whose loved one endured emotional and physical abuse at the hands of staff.
Contact Leitner Varughese Warywoda Today
Nursing home abuse and neglect cases demand swift action and skilled legal representation. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim, don’t wait to seek help. Time is critical to preserving evidence and protecting their rights.
Call us today at 212-671-1110 or visit lvlawny.com to schedule a free consultation. We serve families throughout New York City (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island) and Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties).
At Leitner Varughese Warywoda, we are dedicated to protecting the dignity, safety, and well-being of nursing home residents. Let us help you seek the justice your loved one deserves.
