Call Now For A Free Consultation
Toll Free: (866) 907-1145 | Local: (919) 899-9852

Navigating the Complex Terrain of Falls in Nursing Homes

At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, we hold a firm belief in the right of every senior to be treated with dignity, respect, and exceptional care in nursing homes. It is heartrending when we see this principle violated, especially when negligence results in avoidable falls in nursing homes. This is a pressing issue for our elderly population and their families, and we strive to help you understand the problem, its causes, the nursing home's responsibilities, and your legal options.

FREE Consultations

Call us at (866) 907-1145 24/7 to arrange to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your case, or contact us through the website today.

Falls in Nursing Homes: A Silent Epidemic

As individuals age, their risk of experiencing a fall increases significantly due to a variety of factors. Unfortunately, for seniors living in nursing homes, the situation is especially critical. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year, an average of 100 to 200 falls are reported in a nursing home housing 100 residents. What's more concerning is that these figures represent only the reported cases. Many incidents go unreported, making the actual numbers potentially far higher.

Factors Contributing to Falls in Nursing Homes

Several factors contribute to the high frequency of falls in nursing homes. Physical factors like:

  • muscle weakness
  • gait problems
  • and balance issues are common among seniors.

Environmental hazards in the nursing home, such as:

  • poor lighting
  • wet floors
  • improper bed height
  • or poorly maintained equipment

can also lead to falls in nursing homes. Additionally, certain medications or improper medication management can cause dizziness or disorientation, increasing the fall risk.

What Injuries Are Common After a Fall in a Nursing Home?

falls in nursing home

After a fall in a nursing home, several injuries can occur, often due to the vulnerable nature of elderly individuals. Some common injuries that may result from a fall in a nursing home include:

Fractures

Falls can lead to fractures, especially in areas such as the hips, wrists, arms, and ankles. Hip fractures are particularly common and can be severe, requiring surgical intervention and prolonged rehabilitation.

Head Injuries

Falls can cause head injuries ranging from minor bumps and bruises to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Head injuries can lead to concussions, skull fractures, intracranial bleeding, or brain contusions.

Soft Tissue Injuries

These include sprains, strains, and bruises. Ligaments, tendons, and muscles may be stretched or torn, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Back and Spinal Injuries

Falls can result in injuries to the back and spine, such as vertebral fractures or herniated discs. These injuries can lead to significant pain, nerve damage, and impaired mobility.

Cuts and Abrasions

Falls can cause cuts and abrasions, especially if there are sharp objects or furniture nearby. These injuries can range from minor lacerations to deeper wounds requiring stitches or surgical intervention. If medical treatment is denied, these cuts could lead to severe infections.

Emotional Trauma

Apart from physical injuries, falls can also cause emotional trauma and psychological distress, leading to fear of falling again, decreased self-confidence, and anxiety. Emotional trauma can negatively impact an individual's overall well-being.

It's important to note that falls in nursing homes are considered preventable incidents, and appropriate measures should be taken to minimize the risk of falls and subsequent injuries. This may include regular assessments of residents' mobility and balance, adequate staff supervision, environmental modifications, and individualized fall prevention strategies.

The Nursing Home's Responsibility

Nursing homes have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy environment for their residents. They should assess each resident's risk for falling and implement personalized fall prevention strategies. These measures might include physical therapy, appropriate medication management, adequate supervision, and maintenance of a safe environment.

If a nursing home fails in these duties and a resident suffers a fall injury as a result, the facility may be held liable. This is where the expertise of an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer is invaluable.

Legal Recourse for Victims and Families

At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, we have significant experience in handling cases of nursing home negligence, including fall injuries. If you or your loved one has suffered a fall in a nursing home, we will meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. If negligence is found, we will fight passionately to ensure that justice is served and that you receive the nursing home abuse lawsuit settlement you deserve.

We understand that no monetary award can truly compensate for the physical and emotional trauma caused by such an event. However, a successful legal action can cover medical expenses, provide for future care needs, and act as a deterrent, encouraging nursing homes to implement safer practices. Learning how to spot elder abuse is also a great way to be proactive in caring for your loved one.

How Much Does an Elder Law Attorney Cost?

An elder law attorney at our firm works on a contingency basis. A contingency fee basis means we do not charge you anything unless we win a settlement in or out of court. This fee structure ensures we work hard for your case and that you don't have even more out-of-pocket expenses during a stressful time.

Conclusion

Falls in nursing homes are a serious and pervasive issue. If your loved one is a resident in a nursing home, it's crucial to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring their safety. If you suspect negligence, don't hesitate to seek professional legal advice.

Remember, at The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, we are committed to standing up for the rights of nursing home residents. Your trust in us is not taken lightly, and we pledge to relentlessly advocate on your behalf, holding those responsible to account.

FREE Consultations

Call us at (866) 907-1145 24/7 to arrange to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your case, or contact us through the website today.
© 2022 The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A. | All Rights Reserved
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram