Dedicated Dayton Nursing Home Attorneys
Our nursing home lawyer Dayton, OH from Cowan & Hilgeman knows that when it comes to nursing home facilities and staff, we expect the highest standards. Unfortunately, many seniors in nursing homes get mistreated because of short-staffing, lack of training, and other factors. The sad reality is that there are plenty of nursing homes that are poorly managed and underfunded, leaving residents vulnerable to abuse, neglect, or death.
At our law firm, we give a voice to victims who would have otherwise stayed silent out of fear of further misconduct. We are committed to fighting on behalf of those who experience physical and mental injuries due to recklessness, negligence, or even outright willful actions. You can trust that our team is seasoned and equipped to handle cases of this delicate nature. We are not afraid to do what it takes to protect senior loved ones, because no one should have to endure injustice at hands of those who are supposed to care for them.
In some instances, it may be easy to spot when nursing home abuse or neglect is happening. But for others, the injuries are hiding or not visible. It’s important to identify the warning signs so that family members can take action right away if they see them. If your senior loved one is exhibiting these behaviors in a nursing home facility, then it warrants contacting a Dayton, OH nursing home lawyer for advice on how to proceed:
- Bed sores
- Dehydration
- Emotionally upset or withdrawn
- Infections
- Falls
- Malnutrition
- Rapid weight loss
- Reluctance to be helped by a certain staff member
- Isolation
- Unclean conditions
- Injuries that require hospitalization and treatment
- Unusual changes in personality or behavior
- Bruises on wrists or legs (from restraints)
- Frequent illness
- Heavy sedation or medication use
- Resident injuring another resident
Senior residents in a nursing home facility deserve to live their remaining years in peace, without the fear of physical, mental, sexual, or financial abuse. As someone who may be suffering, it’s imperative to advocate for yourself and take action now so that you can get yourself somewhere safe. As a family member of someone who may be in trouble, there is nothing wrong with getting an opinion from a lawyer if you are unsure, and then taking the steps needed to hold the offender responsible. Contact a Dayton, Ohio nursing home lawyer from Cowan & Hilgeman today to have your questions answered.
Types Of Nursing Home Cases We Handle
Families trust nursing homes to care for their loved ones when they can’t provide that care themselves - and if a nursing home fails to provide proper care, those families can turn to a Dayton, OH nursing home lawyer for assistance. At Cowan & Hilgeman, we’ve been helping our clients since 1994. Our practice areas range from personal injury to car accidents and nursing home abuse. Read on to learn more about the types of nursing home cases we handle, and contact us today to get started.
Handling Cases Of Physical Abuse
We represent residents who have been physically harmed by staff members or other residents. This includes incidents where there are signs of hitting, grabbing, or use of force that leads to injury or pain.
Addressing Medical Neglect Or Mistakes
When a facility fails to follow medical orders, misses signs of illness, or delays needed treatment, we step in. These cases often involve worsening health conditions that could have been avoided with timely care.
Investigating Falls And Mobility Injuries
Falls are one of the most common—and preventable—injuries in nursing homes. We review whether the facility had proper safety plans in place and whether staff acted to reduce the risk of harm for residents with mobility issues.
Taking Action In Cases Of Malnutrition Or Dehydration
Residents who are not properly fed or hydrated can suffer serious health issues. We help families hold facilities responsible when poor oversight or neglect leads to weight loss, confusion, or hospitalization.
Responding To Emotional Or Verbal Abuse
Not all abuse leaves a physical mark. Some residents experience yelling, threats, or intimidation from staff. These cases often involve changes in mood, fearfulness, or sudden withdrawal from social activity - and they deserve special attention from a Dayton nursing home lawyer who cares.
Investigating Poor Hygiene And Unsafe Conditions
Cleanliness and basic hygiene are part of everyday care in any facility. When a resident is left in soiled clothing or unsanitary conditions, it can lead to infections and long-term health problems. We help identify when a facility is falling short of its basic duties.
Reviewing Cases Involving Bedsores And Pressure Ulcers
When a resident is left in the same position for too long without being moved, pressure ulcers can form. These injuries are preventable with regular care and attention. We take on cases where staff failed to follow care plans or ignored early signs, leading to serious infections or hospitalization.
Investigating Medication Errors
Nursing homes are responsible for giving the right medications in the right doses at the right times. Mistakes like missed doses, overdosing, or giving the wrong medication can cause real harm. We review medical records and care logs to find out where things went wrong and why proper safeguards weren’t followed.
Representing Families In Wrongful Death Cases
If a loved one passes away due to neglect or abuse, we help families understand what happened and whether the death could have been prevented. We gather records, speak with witnesses, and work to bring forward a strong case on behalf of the family.
At Cowan & Hilgeman, we have over a decade of experience helping clients just like you. Nursing home residents deserve to live with dignity, and families deserve peace of mind. We’re here to help you take the next step if you think your loved one has been harmed. Reach out to us today to see how a Dayton nursing home lawyer from our office can help.
Common Signs Of Nursing Home Mistreatment
If you suspect a loved one is being mistreated, your Dayton, OH nursing home lawyer can help you protect your loved one. At Cowan & Hilgeman, we’ve secured millions of dollars in compensation for our clients, and we’re ready to help you next. Below are some of the most common signs that may point to mistreatment in a nursing home. Get informed, and contact us today to get started.
1. Unexplained Bruises Or Injuries
If you notice bruises, cuts, or other injuries that staff cannot clearly explain, that may be a sign of neglect or physical abuse. Falls happen, but repeated or hidden injuries should raise concern. Ask for written reports and pay attention to how staff respond when you request more information.
2. Sudden Changes In Behavior
When a resident becomes withdrawn, fearful, or anxious, especially around certain staff members, it may be more than a mood shift. These changes could point to emotional mistreatment or verbal abuse. Watch for hesitation to speak in front of caregivers or signs of distress during visits.
3. Poor Hygiene Or Unclean Living Conditions
Residents should be regularly bathed, dressed, and cared for. If your loved one seems unwashed, wears soiled clothes, or lives in a room that smells or appears dirty, that may be a sign the facility isn’t providing proper care. Hygiene neglect can lead to health issues that are preventable.
4. Pressure Sores Or Bedsores
Bedsores are preventable with proper care and movement. If your loved one has sores on their back, hips, or feet, that’s often a red flag that they aren’t being moved regularly or checked on as they should be. Bedsores can quickly become serious infections if left untreated.
5. Overmedication Or Sudden Sedation
If your loved one suddenly seems overly tired, confused, or unusually calm, they may be receiving medication they don’t need. Sometimes facilities use medication to manage residents who need more attention.
6. Fear Of Being Left Alone
A resident who begs you not to leave or becomes visibly upset when you prepare to go might be trying to say something without speaking directly. This kind of behavior can point to mistreatment when the resident feels unsafe or threatened while alone with staff.
7. Loss Of Personal Items Or Money
Missing clothes, jewelry, or unexplained charges on a resident’s account may suggest financial abuse or theft. If this happens more than once, or if staff act dismissively when you ask about it, take note. Document what’s missing and follow up with written requests.
8. Delays In Medical Care
When medical issues go unnoticed or are treated too late, that’s a sign of poor oversight. If your loved one has untreated infections, falls that aren’t reported, or changes in health that aren’t addressed quickly, the care facility may not be doing its job properly. If you notice these delays, you should get in touch with your Dayton nursing home lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact Us Today
At Cowan & Hilgeman, we’ve been helping clients since 1994. Now, it’s our turn to help you. No one should have to wonder whether their loved one is safe. If you’ve seen any of these signs or just feel something isn’t right, don’t wait to ask questions. Contact us today, and see what a Dayton nursing home lawyer from our team can do for you.
Nursing Home Lawyer Dayton, OH FAQs
Your Dayton, Ohio nursing home lawyer can help you get the compensation and closure you deserve if your loved one has suffered from abuse or neglect. Since 1994, we’ve helped clients who noticed something wasn’t right—whether it was neglect, unexplained injuries, or a sudden change in health or mood. If you’re asking questions about legal options or what steps to take, you’re not alone. Read on for some much-needed answers, and contact us today to get started.
How Do I Prove Neglect In A Senior Living Facility?
Proving neglect means showing that the care facility failed to meet its duty to provide safe and reasonable care. This often includes gathering medical records, photographs of injuries, staff logs, and witness statements. Signs like bedsores, sudden weight loss, dehydration, or repeated falls can all point to a lack of proper attention. If possible, document everything with dates, details, and photos.
What Is The Biggest Complaint In Nursing Homes?
The most common complaint is poor care—this includes slow response times, missed medications, and lack of supervision. Families also frequently raise concerns about staff being disrespectful or not paying attention to basic needs. These issues may start small but can lead to serious health problems if they’re not addressed. We encourage families to trust their instincts and speak up if something seems off. Many claims begin when a family member sees changes and starts asking questions that no one seems willing to answer.
How Do I Report A Nursing Home In Ohio?
In Ohio, concerns about care can be reported to the Ohio Department of Health. You can file a complaint online, by phone, or by mail. They may conduct an inspection and follow up with the facility directly. If the concern involves abuse, assault, or serious harm, it’s also a good idea to contact local law enforcement. While these reports can prompt action, they may not lead to financial recovery. That’s where your Dayton nursing home lawyer can make all the difference.
What Damages Can Families Recover In These Cases?
If someone has been hurt due to poor care, families may be able to recover money for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and sometimes even punitive damages if the actions were especially harmful. In cases involving wrongful death, the surviving family may seek compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim For Elder Abuse?
In Ohio, the general time limit for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the injury or the date it was discovered. That said, it’s best not to wait. Evidence can disappear quickly, staff can change, and memories fade. If you think abuse or neglect may have occurred, we recommend reaching out right away so we can begin reviewing records and talking through your options. Delaying could limit your ability to take legal action.
Contact Us Today To Get Started
At Cowan & Hilgeman, we handle a range of cases for our clients, from car accidents to premises liability. We offer personalized case management and a client-centric approach, for every client who contacts us. If you believe your loved one has been mistreated in a care facility, reach out to us today, and see how a Dayton nursing home lawyer from our team can help.
