Pulaski County Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

Protecting Residents in Waynesville & Phelps County, MO

When you entrust the care of your elderly loved one to a nursing home, you expect a safe and respectful environment. Unfortunately, instances of abuse and neglect occur, often going unnoticed until significant harm has been done. 

According to reports in the National Library of Medicine, “nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are among the places with the highest rates of elder abuse.” In one study, 50 percent of the nursing home staff admitted to mistreating residents. 

 Unfortunately, this type of abuse remains a national problem. At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we work to hold negligent facilities accountable and bring justice to victims and their families. With over 30 years of practice in resolving personal injury claims, we understand the devastating effects that abuse and neglect can have, especially on the vulnerable, such as seniors. 

Book a free consultation with a Pulaski County nursing home abuse attorney at Lowe Dreesen Miller by phone at (573) 888-8888. You can also reach us online.

Types of Nursing Home Abuse

 Nursing home abuse can manifest in various forms, including:

• Physical abuse. Infliction of physical harm through hitting, slapping, or improper use of restraints.
• Emotional abuse. Verbal assaults, threats, or isolation leading to psychological trauma.
• Sexual abuse. Non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation.
• Neglect. Failure to provide essential care, resulting in malnutrition, dehydration, or untreated medical issues.
• Financial exploitation. Unauthorized use of a resident's funds or assets.

Abuse can be perpetrated by nursing home staff, other residents, administrators and management, family members, visitors, and third-party contractors. Regardless of who commits the abuse, nursing homes have a legal duty to protect residents from harm. They may be liable for negligence if they fail to supervise, report, or prevent abuse.

Warning Signs of Abuse

Family members should remain vigilant for indicators of abuse, such as:

• Unexplained injuries like bruises, cuts, or fractures.
• Sudden weight loss, poor hygiene, or bedsores.
• Emotional withdrawal, depression, or fearfulness.
• Unusual financial transactions or missing belongings.
• Staff restricting access to the resident or being evasive.

In Missouri, the Department of Health and Senior Services receives and investigates thousands of reports of abuse, neglect, bullying, and exploitation involving seniors and adults with disabilities annually.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Abuse

• Ensure immediate safety: If the resident is in immediate danger, call 911.
• Report the abuse: Contact Missouri’s Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 800-392-0210.
• Document evidence: Keep detailed records of injuries, changes in behavior, and communications with the facility.
• Seek legal counsel: Call Lowe Dreesen Miller to discuss the matter with one of our attorneys experienced in elder abuse cases to understand your rights and options.