Bolingbrook Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyers

Dedicated Attorneys for Injured Nursing Home Residents in Bolingbrook, Illinois

Nursing home abuse and neglect is a serious and heartbreaking issue that affects vulnerable members of our society: the elderly and disabled residents who deserve dignity, respect, and proper care. In Bolingbrook, Illinois, families trust nursing homes to provide safe, attentive care for their loved ones. Sadly, some facilities fail to meet these obligations, resulting in preventable injuries, emotional trauma, and, in extreme cases, death.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are deeply committed to advocating for victims of nursing home abuse and neglect. Our attorneys have extensive experience investigating cases of negligence, physical abuse, financial exploitation, and emotional mistreatment in nursing homes. We understand the devastating impact that abuse and neglect can have on residents and their families, and we fight tirelessly to hold negligent facilities accountable. With offices serving Bolingbrook and the surrounding Chicagoland area, our firm provides compassionate guidance, rigorous legal advocacy, and a commitment to justice for those harmed in nursing homes.

“Nursing home abuse and neglect are unacceptable, and we are committed to holding facilities accountable for their actions. Our team fights tirelessly to protect the rights of vulnerable residents and ensure they receive the care, respect, and justice they deserve.” — John J. Malm, Bolingbrook elder abuse attorney

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Nursing home abuse and neglect can take many forms, including:

• Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, shaking, improper use of restraints, or other acts that cause injury.
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Verbal insults, threats, intimidation, or other behavior causing fear or distress.
• Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation.
• Financial Exploitation: Theft, fraud, or misuse of a resident’s money or property.
• Neglect: Failure to provide necessary care, such as medication, hygiene, nutrition, or assistance with daily activities, leading to harm or risk of harm.

According to the Illinois Department on Aging, in fiscal year 2023, Adult Protective Services received 20,759 reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults. Nationally, approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 60+ experience some form of elder abuse each year.

Nursing Homes in Bolingbrook

Families in Bolingbrook have multiple nursing home options, but it is critical to monitor the care provided. Some notable facilities include:

• Meadowbrook Manor: 201 W Briarcliff Rd.
• StoryPoint of Bolingbrook: 370 Weber Rd.
• Heritage Woods of Bolingbrook: 550 Kildeer Dr.

Each facility is required to follow strict state and federal regulations. However, understaffing, poor training, and systemic neglect can lead to abuse or unsafe conditions. Families should remain vigilant and conduct regular visits, monitor residents’ well-being, and review state inspection reports.

Common Injuries in Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and neglect can result in a wide range of injuries, often severe or life-threatening:

• Bruises, cuts, and broken bones: Physical abuse or improper handling can lead to fractures or internal injuries.
• Bedsores (pressure ulcers): Often a result of neglect or insufficient mobility assistance.
• Dehydration and malnutrition: Failure to provide adequate food or fluids.
• Infections – Poor hygiene or untreated wounds can lead to dangerous infections.
• Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Resulting from falls, neglect, or abuse.
• Emotional trauma: Depression, anxiety, and withdrawal caused by verbal abuse or neglect.
• Wrongful death: In severe cases, abuse or neglect can result in preventable fatalities.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reports that nearly 8% of nursing home citations in 2023 involved abuse or neglect, highlighting the prevalence of these issues nationwide.

Signs of Bolingbrook Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

Family members should watch for the following warning signs in nursing home residents:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries.
• Sudden weight loss or dehydration.
• Poor hygiene, bedsores, or unsanitary living conditions.
• Unusual fear or withdrawal from staff or visitors.
• Medication mismanagement or sudden changes in behavior.
• Missing personal belongings or financial irregularities.

Legal Rights of Bolingbrook Nursing Home Residents

Residents have specific protections under state and federal law, including:

• Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987: Residents have the right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Illinois Nursing Home Care Act: Ensures residents can participate in care planning and are informed of services and charges.
• Right to Safe and Adequate Care: Facilities must provide sufficient staffing, proper training, and quality care.

Steps to Take if Abuse or Neglect is Suspected at a Bolingbrook Nursing Home

1. Report Immediately: Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-252-4343.
2. Document Evidence: Keep detailed notes, photos, and records of injuries or neglect.
3. Consult a Bolingbrook Nursing Home Injury Attorney: An experienced attorney can help preserve evidence and protect the resident’s rights.
4. Advocate for the Resident: Maintain regular visits, monitor care, and communicate concerns to facility management.

Legal Remedies and Compensation for Bolingbrook Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

Victims and their families may pursue compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Costs associated with treating injuries or conditions caused by abuse or neglect.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Wrongful Death Damages: For families of residents who die due to abuse or neglect.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious conduct, courts may award additional damages to punish the facility.

A skilled Bolingbrook nursing home attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and advocate for full financial and legal remedies on behalf of the resident.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bolingbrook Nursing Home Negligence

Q: How can I report nursing home abuse in Bolingbrook?
A: Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-252-4343 or reach out to your local long-term care ombudsman.

Q: What should I do if I suspect abuse or neglect?
A: Document evidence, report the incident, and consult an attorney experienced in nursing home abuse. Quick action is critical to prevent further harm.

Q: Can I sue a nursing home for negligence?
A: Yes. If negligence can be proven, families may pursue civil lawsuits to obtain compensation for injuries, suffering, or wrongful death.

Q: Are staff members personally liable?
A: In some cases, individual caregivers may be held personally accountable for abuse or neglect, in addition to the facility.

Q: What compensation can victims receive?
A: Victims may recover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, punitive damages, and wrongful death damages.

Contact the Experienced Bolingbrook Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

Nursing home abuse and neglect in Bolingbrook is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. If your loved one has suffered harm due to a negligent or abusive facility, taking action promptly can protect their health, safety, and rights. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the emotional and legal complexities of these cases. Our experienced Bolingbrook nursing home neglect attorneys will investigate the circumstances, collect critical evidence, and pursue maximum compensation for your family.

Do not wait to advocate for your loved one. Contact John J. Malm & Associates today for a free, confidential consultation. Call (630) 524-2323 or complete our online contact form to speak directly with a dedicated attorney. Let us help you hold negligent nursing homes accountable and secure justice for those who cannot speak for themselves.