Teens Arrested for Nursing Home Abuse

Two teenagers who worked at a nursing home in southern Minnesota were arrested last year for abusing residents at the facility who suffered from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The young women, both 19, were accused of spanking, groping, spitting on, and sexually humiliating their victims. They were employed part-time at the nursing home and were charged with 11 and 10 criminal counts each, facing a maximum of 12 months in jail. Four other teens who also worked at the facility were charged in Juvenile Court as minors.

Nursing home facilities are often understaffed or staffed with poorly trained individuals. The above story illustrates what can happen to the vulnerable and mentally incapacitated elders who are entrusted into the care of negligent, often cruel attendants. Elder abuse is a growing crime and concern across the nation as more people who are living longer are placed into such institutions. Such abuse can be inflicted physically, sexually, emotionally, and even financially through the unethical conduct of others.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

If you have a family member or friend who has been placed in a nursing home or senior care facility in the Chattanooga area, you should be alert to the various signs that may signal elder abuse. Such indicators as bed sores, bruises, cuts, welts, unexplained injuries, rashes, depression, sudden shifts in behavior, agitation, and emotional withdrawal on the part of your loved one or friend should be investigated. Abuse can also consist of neglect, where elderly residents are not given proper hygiene, nutrition, hydration, or medical care.

Such incidents should be reported to the management of the facility. Where abuse has been found, you may wish to speak to a Chattanooga personal injury attorney who is experienced with such cases. The trial lawyers at The Law Offices of John Whitfield have over 45 years of combined legal experience in such matters and can provide you with skilled and knowledgeable advice and legal representation in making a personal injury claim against those responsible for elder neglect or abuse.

Contact a Chattanooga nursing home abuse attorney at the firm if you suspect that your family member or friend has been victimized today.