The decision to place your loved one in a nursing home can be emotionally excruciating. What makes it worse is the concern that your father, mother, or grandparent may not get the quality of care that they would get in your own home, if situations were different and you were able to take care of them. While some nursing home facilities are outstanding and provide the highest quality of care possible, all too often nursing homes fall short of the acceptable standard of care that your loved one deserves and to which he or she is entitled.

The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 established national standards to ensure that nursing home facilities that receive Medicare and Medicaid funds provided the elderly with the quality of healthcare services they deserve. Nearly all nursing home facilities receive federal funds, so they are required to comply. For example, nursing home facilities must ensure that:

• All residents are treated with dignity
• A comprehensive care plan has been established
• All residents receive proper medical care, including measures to prevent the development of  pressure sores and the provision of  prompt treatment if they do occur
• They have adequate nursing staff

The list above represents only a small snapshot of all the requirements that nursing homes are required to follow. Any violation of these requirements is reportable and may constitute abuse.

Growing old is challenging in even the best of circumstances. Your loved ones deserve to spend their final days in dignity. If you suspect that your loved one has been mistreated, a West Virginia nursing home abuse lawyer can help you evaluate your situation, stop the abuse, and hold the nursing home responsible.

Please call one of the compassionate attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC at 304-400-6558 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.