Falls among the elderly in nursing homes can be an unfortunate mishap, or they can be the sign of Abuse or Neglect.
Falls, when they arise from Abuse or Neglect, are a significant concern in nursing homes, often leading to serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and even fatalities.
Many of these falls are preventable and can indicate neglect or abuse within a facility. When that happens, call us at Lenahan & Dempsey immediately at 1.888.536.2426.
Our highly successful team of lawyers and paralegals can help you. We have won Hundreds and Hundreds of Millions for our clients – and there is never a fee until you get the money you deserve.
The Prevalence of Falls in Pennsylvania Nursing Homes
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among nursing home residents. The elderly population is particularly vulnerable due to factors such as the effects of medication, decreased mobility, mental impairment and more.
While falls can happen for many reasons, repeated incidents or injuries that occur under questionable circumstances should raise concerns about the quality of care being provided.
Common Causes of Falls in Nursing Homes
Several factors can contribute to falls in nursing homes, including:
- Inadequate Staffing - Insufficient staff levels can result in residents not receiving the assistance they need for mobility, leading to falls.
- Unsafe Environments - Hazards such as cluttered hallways, wet floors, poorly lit areas, or slippery/uneven surfaces can create dangerous conditions.
- Neglect of Personal Needs - Failing to properly take care of a residents' basic needs, such as providing assistance to go to the bathroom or moving them safely, can increase fall risk.
- Improper Use of Restraints - Using physical restraints without proper justification can lead to falls when residents attempt to move.
Nursing Homes Have A Legal Responsibility To Attempt To Prevent Falls
Under Pennsylvania law, nursing homes have a duty to provide a proper standard of care that protects residents from harm, including falls. This includes:
Regular Risk Assessments - Facilities must evaluate each resident's risk for falls upon admission and periodically thereafter to help prevent issues such as Falls.
Implementing Safety Measures - Nursing homes must develop and maintain protocols to minimize fall risks, such as proper staffing ratios and safety equipment.
Staff Training - Caregivers must be adequately trained to recognize fall risks and respond appropriately to prevent injuries.
Providing Prompt Medical Attention. If a fall does occur, nursing homes must ensure that residents receive timely medical treatment to address any injuries.
Signs of Neglect or Abuse
Families should try to closely monitor their loved ones in Nursing Homes to look for signs of improper or negligent care. Some things to look for, include but are not limited to:
Frequent Falls - Multiple falls within a short period can suggest inadequate supervision or care.
Unexplained Injuries - Injuries that occur without a clear explanation may indicate negligence or abusive behavior.
Behavioral Changes - Sudden behavioral changes, such as withdrawal or fear of caregivers, can be red flags for potential abuse.
Lenahan & Dempsey Fights For Your Loved One’s Rights
If you suspect a loved one isn’t being properly cared for in a Nursing Home, especially if they are the victim of a devastating fall or repeated series of falls, call us immediately at 1.888.536.2426. We know how to get you the results your case deserves.
At Lenahan & Dempsey, we know how to win these cases.
Hundreds & Hundreds of Millions Won For Our Clients
There is never a fee until you get the compensation you deserve.
Our success in winning Hundreds and Hundreds of Millions for our clients for all types of serious injuries has led to Judges and our peers voting us for inclusion in The Best Law Firms in America, and we are listed as a Tier 1 Law Firm (the highest rating). Eight of our lawyers are listed in Best Lawyers in America and eight are listed as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers. Three, including Firm President John Lenahan, Jr., Managing Partner Timothy Lenahan and Attorney Matthew Dempsey are listed in The Top 100 Lawyers in Pennsylvania (out of over 48,000 Pennsylvania lawyers).
Timothy Lenahan is also Best Lawyers in America’s Top Insurance Lawyer for his representation of the injured fighting against large insurers for the region of Northeastern/Central Pennsylvania and the Pocono Mountains. He has previously been named Best Lawyers Top Personal Injury Lawyer for that region for his work fighting for the rights of injured people.
It is important to note that almost all Personal Injury cases, including those that arise from Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect, such as falls, are usually dominated by insurance issues.
What Can You Expect When Working With Lenahan & Dempsey
We have recovered Hundreds and Hundreds of Millions for our clients across almost all fields of Personal Injury, Insurance Bad Faith and Workers’ Compensation law.
We fully understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a case can take on victims and their families. Our highly dedicated team of lawyers and paralegals can point to a history of success supporting our clients and winning the money they need to rebuild their lives.
* Best Lawyers in America and Best Law Firms are trademarks of Woodward White. Super Lawyers and Top 100 Lawyers in Pennsylvania are trademarks of Thompson Reuters. Both trademarks are used with permission. Details on Settlements & Verdicts are found at LenahanDempsey.com. All law firms are required to note that because the facts of each case are different, past performance is not a promise of a future outcome.
