Elder abuse is an all-too-common problem. Whether at home or in nursing homes and other care facilities, our most vulnerable elders are at risk. Sadly, officials believe elder abuse is largely underreported. In fact, only 1 in 23 elder abuse cases are reported to authorities, according to estimates from the U.S. Department of Justice. Additionally,… Read More
Nursing Home Abuse
Punishments for Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is considered a serious crime, but it often goes unreported. Older adults and their loved ones may be afraid that reporting abuse will lead to worse treatment. Thankfully, there are laws at both the federal and state levels to ensure punishments for elder abuse are carried out. Learn more about what to do… Read More
Handling Abuse Allegations in Nursing Homes
Nursing home abuse is a serious claim that many people may feel uncomfortable making. However, because nursing home residents are usually frail and often cannot defend themselves, all allegations of abuse must be taken seriously. Learn how to handle abuse allegations in nursing homes and keep your loved one safe. Nursing Home Abuse Allegations: What… Read More
Racial Disparities in Nursing Home Care
Research has uncovered racial disparities in nursing home care. While the reasons for these inequalities are not always clear, they present a serious public health problem that deserves attention. Racial disparities in nursing home care include higher rates of nursing home abuse and neglect among nonwhite residents. Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has made the situation… Read More
Secretive Appeals Process Hides Cases of Nursing Home Abuse
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rates nursing homes across the country on its Care Compare website. However, the New York Times reported in December 2021 that thousands of complaints filed against nursing homes were secretly appealed by facilities — and didn’t affect their ratings despite glaring problems. Learn how you can take… Read More
Nursing Home Holiday Visits & COVID-19
The holidays can be a great time to connect with older loved ones who may be living in nursing homes. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic — and the threat of a new variant — it’s key to take precautions so your loved ones aren’t put at risk. Learn how you can safely celebrate the holidays… Read More
What Percentage of Elder Abuse Is Done by Family Members?
Family members commit elder abuse in nearly 6 out of 10 cases, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA). Other studies found that family members are the most common perpetrators of nearly every type of elder abuse. Learn how to keep an older person you love safe. Family and the Problem of Elder Abuse… Read More
Delta Variant Leads to Uptick in Nursing Home Deaths
After a spike in COVID-19 cases attributed to the Delta variant caused thousands of deaths in nursing homes over the summer, it’s important to focus on how to protect yourself and your loved ones living in long-term care facilities. COVID-19 poses a higher risk to nursing homes as residents often share living spaces and have… Read More
World Alzheimer’s Day
World Alzheimer’s Day is celebrated every year on September 21st. Patients, caregivers, and advocates come together and fight for the 50 million people globally who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The organizers hope to use the day as a way to raise awareness of the condition and also to educate public… Read More
Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Cases
Because the state of Illinois ranks last in terms of nursing home staffing levels, employees are often overworked and very stressed. This dangerous combination is unfortunately linked with high rates of nursing home abuse in Illinois. Fortunately, those abused in Illinois nursing homes may be able to take legal action. Recent Nursing Home Abuse Cases… Read More