About 20% of the population finds themselves cared for at nursing homes in their later years. They place their daily lives in the hands of staff who are dedicated to bringing quality and dignified care. Families put their trust in nursing homes to watch over and care for their loved ones, but unfortunately, families often find that their loved ones are neglected or even abused.
Abuse in nursing homes can come in many forms, as some people are more vulnerable than others. Older people who need more extensive care are placed at levels 3 and 4 in supportive living and tend to be the most vulnerable due to the fact that they cannot adequately advocate for themselves or report the abuse. It is up to the families to recognize the abuse, report it, and work with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney to bring justice to their loved ones.
Understanding Levels of Home Healthcare Needs
When it comes to assisted living, there are different levels of care. Split into 4 levels ranging from the independent senior who would benefit from activities and socialization to someone who needs continuous assistance. Understanding these levels will bring awareness to the community and the families of those who are in assisted living facilities for elder abuse and the signs to look for if they suspect that their loved one is not receiving the care that they should.
| Level of Care | Independence | Assistance Required |
| Level 0 - Independent | Independent in most tasks, able to navigate stairways in case of an emergency | No assistance needed |
| Level 1 - Minimum Assist | Independent in some tasks with some reminders, infrequent fall risk, little memory impairment | Minimal assistance, such as reminders or encouragement |
| Level 2 - Stand-by Assist | May need assistance in an emergency, may need assistance with medication management, meals, or housekeeping, mild memory impairment | Close supervision and occasional physical assistance |
| Level 3 - Hands-On Assist | Needs assistance in an emergency, needs assistance with medication management, hygiene, and housekeeping, needs encouragement and escort to activities and socialization, impaired memory and mild confusion | Significant physical assistance and constant supervision |
| Level 4 - Total Assist | Needs supervision in an emergency, needs transfer help with two people, hands-on medication and behavior management, needs assistance with nutrition, hygiene, and 24 hour nursing, needs continuous assistance | Total physical and cognitive assistance |
Everyone deserves dignity in their older years of life, and when it comes to providing these people with care, nursing homes and their staff should be trained and fully prepared to bring them the compassionate care they deserve. If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from a lack of quality care at their nursing home, don’t wait. Contact Coker Law to assess their quality of life now. One day without dignity is too long.
Recognizing the Signs of Abuse in Level 3 & 4 Home HealthCare Abuse
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse in our loved ones while they receive hands-on care can be difficult. There is no pattern or recognizable path when it comes to elder abuse, and our loved ones who need high levels of care may not be able to articulate to you that they may be suffering.
Signs of abuse may look like:
- Lack of basic hygieneÂ
- Lack of medical aidsÂ
- Unexplained weight loss
- Untreated bedsores
- Unexplained injuries, bleeding, or bruises
- Unpaid bills despite adequate funds
- Uncharacteristic changes in behavior
The notion of elder abuse is filled with preconceived notions and misconceptions about who it affects and where it happens. Most elder abuse occurs at home instead of in nursing homes, and it can affect anyone of any race, religion, or gender. A caregiver’s personal problems, lifestyle, or societal attitude can contribute to the abuse that your loved ones suffer. Together, we can hold negligent caregivers accountable and ensure your loved one has a safe and dignified living environment.
What to Do if You Suspect Level 3 & 4 Home Healthcare Abuse
Families play an important role in safeguarding their loved ones. When they remain actively involved in their care, they can swiftly identify when that care is being neglected or if they may require more assistance.
If you suspect that someone is facing elder abuse, here are some steps you can take:
- Call 911 if you feel that they are in immediate life-threatening danger
- Call the Florida Abuse Hotline to report your concerns
- File a complaint with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration
- Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney to ensure that legal action is taken
- Document any signs of neglect or abuseÂ
- Follow up on the agencies and their progress with your complaint
An experienced attorney specializing in elder care and abuse can help your family file a claim and investigate the issues. Coker Law can guide you as you take the steps to protect your loved ones and stop the abuse.
Legal Rights of Level 3 and 4 Care Residents and Their Families
The elderly who need high levels of assistance have the right to a safe environment, free from abuse and neglect, and their families have the right to be included and involved in their care. These rights are afforded to them to protect their safety, dignity, and quality of life, and if their caretakers fall short, they can be held accountable for their negligence and abuse.
Nursing home residents have the right to:
- Dignity, respect, and privacy
- Freedom from abuse and neglect
- Proper medical care
- Safe and clean living environment
- Participate in social and recreational activities
- Be free from restraints
- Manage financial affairs
- Voice complaints without retaliation
- Receive regular visitors
While nursing homes and caretakers are responsible for providing care, residents and their families must understand their legal rights to ensure that they can effectively advocate for their loved ones.
How Coker Law Fights to Hold Facilities Accountable
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse, staying active in their lives, and reporting your concerns are how you can protect your loved ones. By having Coker Law represent your case, we can ensure that those who have failed to provide your loved one with the respect and dignified care they deserve are held accountable. Contact us today so we can help end the abuse now.
