Wrongful Death Caused by Nursing Home Neglect

Ohio Wrongful Death Lawyers | Nursing Home Neglect

When a loved one requires nursing home or assisted living care, it is difficult for everyone involved. This difficult situation can become tragic when a loved one suffers wrongful death due to nursing home neglect or abuse. It is always hard to cope with the death of a loved one, but knowing that the death was preventable compounds the grief.

According to a special report by the St. Louis Post Dispatch, “thousands” of elderly nursing home residents are victims of “fatal neglect” every year. In a study published in September 2002 in the Journal of Health Care Law and Policy, Marie-Therese Connolly, head of the U.S. Department of Justice Nursing Home Initiative, stated “Unlawful abuse and neglect is widespread, underreported, infrequently prosecuted and the cause of untold suffering, injury, illness and death.”

In 1999, the National Center of Health Statistic’s data showed starvation, dehydration or bedsores as the cause of death on 4,138 death certificates for nursing home residents. The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging conducted an investigation that indicated that there are 500,000 to 5 million cases of elder abuse and neglect every year, most of which are unreported. “The number of avoidable deaths of our elderly could be in the tens of thousands” stated Sen. John Breaux.

Many of the deaths in nursing home facilities result from inadequate staffing. In a 2002 study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, it was reported that 90 percent of nursing homes are unable to provide proper care because of understaffing. Another shocking statistic is that 92 percent of all nursing homes have aides or other staff with a criminal record. Background checks for nursing home employees are not required.

Understanding Nursing Home Neglect in Ohio

Nursing home neglect occurs when a care facility fails to meet the basic needs of residents, including proper hygiene, medication management, nutrition, supervision, and protection from harm. Sadly, this neglect can contribute to fatal conditions such as:

• Severe infections (e.g., untreated bedsores or UTIs)
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Falls or injuries due to lack of supervision
• Medication errors or overdoses

If these failures result in the untimely death of your loved one, you have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney

Wrongful death cases involving nursing homes can be complex. They require a thorough investigation into medical records, care documentation, and staff conduct. Facilities and their insurers will often attempt to deflect blame, making it essential to have a dedicated legal advocate by your side.

Clark, Perdue & List Co., LPA is experienced in handling wrongful death cases caused by nursing home neglect in Columbus and across Ohio. We know how to identify signs of abuse or negligence and fight for the justice your family deserves.

By partnering with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer in Columbus, you can pursue compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your loved one’s death.

Signs of Nursing Home Neglect to Watch For

Identifying neglect early can help prevent a tragedy. If you notice any of the following in a nursing home, it could indicate potential negligence:

• Unexplained injuries (e.g., bruises, fractures, bedsores)
• Poor hygiene or living conditions
• Sudden changes in weight or mood
• Withdrawal or fear around staff members

If you suspect neglect or abuse, act quickly by documenting your observations and contacting a nursing home abuse attorney in Ohio.