Reporting Nursing Home Abuse

an elderly woman stares out a window and looks concerned

4 Key Statistics on Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes

Sexual abuse in nursing homes is rare, but it can be extremely harmful, both physically and mentally. Sexual abuse in nursing homes may be committed by anyone — staff, other residents, or even criminals who enter the facility illegally. Below, learn about some of the important facts on sexual abuse in nursing homes. If your… Read More

Court house with justice written on the front

5 Alarming Cases of Nursing Home Abuse and Their Fights for Justice

Nursing home abuse takes place every day and comes in many forms. At times, victims may feel hopeless in reporting and seeking legal help after experiencing nursing home abuse. However, these 5 recent examples show that justice is possible for those affected. 1. New York Attorney General Holds Nursing Home Accountable for Fraud and Neglect… Read More

Two people holding hands in comfort

What Are Mandated Reporting Laws for Elder Abuse?

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

An older man sits sadly and rests his hands on a cane

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

Holding Hands

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

an older African American woman sits in a nursing home and looks at a nurse in the foreground

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

A closeup shot of a grey stone court house building.

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

an older woman cowers in fear and covers her face with her hands

Outright Abuse in Nursing Homes

Outright abuse in nursing homes occurs when staff members inflict physical, sexual, or emotional harm to residents. This makes outright abuse slightly different from nursing home neglect, which typically happens when a lack of care leads to harm. Thankfully, those hurt by neglect or outright abuse in nursing homes can pursue justice and compensation. What… Read More

an older woman holding another person's hand

Elder Abuse by Family Members vs. Nursing Home Staff Members

Elder abuse is extremely dangerous, whether it is committed by nursing home staff members or family members. Elder abuse can physically, emotionally, or financially harm older adults, and can even lead to death. See how you can take action against both elder abuse by family members and nursing home abuse. Differences Between Elder Abuse and… Read More

someone signing a restraining order

Elder Abuse Restraining Orders

Older Americans may file a restraining order against a caregiver or a family member who has abused them. They should gather the evidence needed to meet the burden of proof and contact a local law enforcement agency. Elder abuse restraining orders can save lives. Restraining Orders for Elder Abuse Explained A restraining order is a… Read More