Nursing home negligence is a global concern that also impacts vulnerable seniors in Canada. A review of survey data from 28 countries found that one in six seniors living in community settings had experienced some form of mistreatment.
While long-term care facilities are meant to provide safety and support, many elderly residents suffer from neglect and inadequate care. Knowingwhat to do if you suspect nursing home negligence can help protect your loved one and hold negligent facilities accountable.
Understanding Nursing Home Negligence
Nursing home negligence occurs when a long-term care facility fails to provide the standard of care necessary to keep residents safe, healthy, and comfortable. It’s important to distinguish what is considered neglect in a nursing home from abuse.
Neglect occurs when a nursing home does not provide a resident with essential care, including proper nutrition, hygiene, medical attention, and supervision. Neglect often stems from understaffing or insufficient training.
In contrast, abuse is intentional harm, which may be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. Neglect and abuse can cause serious health issues and emotional suffering for seniors.
Common Types of Nursing Home Neglect
Residents often have more significant physical and cognitive limitations, putting them at even higher risk for neglect. Nursing home negligence can lead to severe physical, emotional, and psychological harm.
Some examples of neglect include:
- Hygiene Neglect – Failing to assist with bathing, oral care, or changing soiled clothing
- Medical Neglect – Not providing medications, treatments, or monitoring for chronic conditions
- Emotional Neglect – Isolating residents, ignoring their needs, or failing to provide companionship
- Basic Needs Neglect – Failing to provide proper food, water, or a safe environment
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Negligence
Identifying signs of nursing home neglect early can help protect your loved one from serious harm or premature death.
Common warning signs include:
- Unexplained weight loss, dehydration, bedsores, poor hygiene, untreated medical conditions, or frequent infections
- Sudden withdrawal, anxiety, depression, agitation, or reluctance to speak around staff
- Dirty living spaces, strong odours, soiled bedding, lack of proper medical equipment, or signs of understaffing
If you notice these red flags in a Nova Scotia nursing home, taking swift action can help prevent further harm.
Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect Negligence
If you believe a loved one is being neglected, taking prompt action can protect their well-being.
Here’swhat to do if you suspect nursing home neglect:
- Ensure Their Safety – If the situation is urgent, remove them from immediate danger and seek medical attention. If your loved one is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or your local police department.
- Document Evidence – Take photos of injuries, poor living conditions, or unclean facilities. Keep records of missed medications, unexplained weight loss, or behavioural changes.
- Pursue Legal Action – Consult a nursing home negligence lawyer to explore your options. They can evaluate the strength of your claim and advise you on next steps.
Reporting and Legal Actions
Taking action against nursing home negligence can help safeguard your loved one and prevent others from suffering the same mistreatment. If you suspect neglect, you have the right to report your concerns and take legal action.
Filing a Complaint
Reporting nursing home neglect is a crucial step to protect vulnerable residents. Call Adult Protection Services at 1-800-225-7225 to report concerns and request an investigation. You don’t need absolute proof to file a report, and authorities will assess the situation and take appropriate action.
The confidential Senior Abuse Information and Referral Line is available for general support and resources at 1-877-833-3377.
Legal Options
Families and residents may have the right to file a nursing home negligence lawsuit, seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. An experienced nursing home negligence lawyer can help pursue a claim, hold facilities accountable, and seek justice for your senior.
Finding and Working with Legal Experts
If you’re thinking about taking legal action, your choice in legal representation is of crucial importance. Look for someone with a strong background in nursing home negligence cases or one who specializes in elder law. A skilled lawyer will work to hold negligent facilities accountable and seek the compensation your family deserves.
In Nova Scotia, most negligence claims must be filed within two years under the New Limitation of Actions Act, so you should consult a lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you gather evidence, meet deadlines, and build a solid case to protect your loved one’s best interests.
Preventing Future Negligence
Proactive advocacy and community involvement are critical aspects of protecting seniors from nursing home neglect. Families can push for higher care standards by staying informed about provincial regulations, attending care facility meetings, and voicing concerns with administrators.
Supporting elder advocacy organizations can also drive policy changes and stronger resident protections. Groups such as the Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (CNPEA) and other senior advocacy programs work to promote awareness, improve long-term care policies, and hold negligent facilities accountable. Families can help create safer environments for their loved ones and future generations of seniors by staying engaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my loved one is experiencing neglect?
Look for signs such as unexplained weight loss, bedsores, poor hygiene, sudden behavioural changes, or unsafe living conditions.
What can I do to monitor my loved one’s care?
Visit frequently and stay engaged in your loved one’s care. Ask staff about their care plan and any updates and watch for changes in their physical or emotional well-being. If concerns arise, document and report issues promptly.
What legal rights do nursing home residents have?
Nursing home residents of Nova Scotia have the right to proper care, dignity, and protection from neglect or abuse. If these rights are violated, families can file complaints and pursue legal recourse.
Contact a Halifax Elder Abuse Lawyer
At Wagners Law Firm, we have been advocating for injury victims since 1982. We are committed to holding negligent nursing homes accountable and fighting for the rights of vulnerable seniors.
If your loved one has suffered neglect or abuse, contact Wagners Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us help you seek justice.
Photo by Gert Stockmans on Unsplash