Georgia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

• Physical abuse. Physical abuse in a nursing home refers to the intentional use of force that results in bodily harm, pain, or impairment to residents. This can include acts like hitting, slapping, pushing, or restraining someone in an inappropriate or harmful manner. Such abuse not only causes physical injuries but also deeply affects the emotional and mental well-being of a vulnerable population already reliant on care and support. It is often perpetrated by caregivers, staff members, or even other residents. Unexplained bruises, frequent injuries, or a sudden change in a resident's behavior can all be signs of physical abuse. 
• Emotional abuse. Emotional abuse often manifests in more subtle yet equally damaging ways compared to physical abuse. It can include verbal belittlement, intimidation, isolation, or excessive control over a resident’s daily activities. For example, staff members may use harsh tones, make derogatory remarks, or ignore the resident’s attempts to communicate. Emotional abuse can also involve neglecting the resident’s need for social interaction, leading to feelings of loneliness and abandonment. Residents who are subjected to emotional abuse may appear withdrawn, exhibit signs of anxiety or depression, or show reluctance to speak openly in the presence of certain caregivers.
• Financial exploitation. Financial exploitation in a nursing home setting can involve the improper or unauthorized use of a resident’s funds, property, or assets. This can include caregivers or staff members coercing residents into signing financial documents, stealing cash or personal belongings, or manipulating them into giving gifts. Warning signs may include unexplained financial transactions, missing valuables, sudden changes in wills or legal documents, or a resident expressing confusion about their finances.
• Neglect. Neglect can take many forms and often leads to serious consequences for residents. It may involve failing to provide adequate food, water, or assistance with daily living activities such as bathing and dressing. Medical neglect is another critical concern, where residents might not receive necessary medications, treatments, or timely care for injuries and illnesses. Emotional and social neglect can also occur when staff ignore the resident's emotional needs or fail to provide opportunities for social interaction. Signs of neglect might include unexplained weight loss, poor hygiene, untreated medical conditions, or frequent emotional distress.

Georgia Nursing Home Laws and Resident Rights

Nursing home residents have fundamental rights meant to protect their safety, dignity, and quality of life. They have the right to receive proper medical care, maintain their privacy, and participate in decisions about their treatment. If you feel these rights are being violated, you have the right to file a formal complaint.

In Georgia, you can file this complaint with the state’s Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD), which is part of The Georgia Department of Community Health. You can submit a complaint online or by phone by calling 1-800-878-6442.

You only have two years from the date of the nursing home abuse or neglect – or the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered mistreatment – to take legal action against the party or parties responsible. If you do not file a lawsuit before this deadline, you will likely lose your right to seek justice and compensation, so do not wait to get in touch with our Georgia nursing home abuse lawyers.