Seeking Justice for Neglected Nursing Home Residents
Of all the types of injuries that occur in nursing homes, those that happen due to residents wandering off the grounds without supervision can be among the most shocking. How does someone simply walk out of a nursing home without anyone noticing? Who is responsible?
I'm James H. Bell, a Missouri and Kansas trial attorney with more than 30 years of legal experience. Based in Kansas City, I help clients pursue compensation for nursing home abuse and neglect.
If your parent or other loved one has wandered off and became injured due to the negligence of a nursing home, don't hesitate to contact me to arrange a free initial consultation. You will pay no fees unless I help you recover money damages.
Understanding the Risks and Dangers of Elopement
There are several different circumstances that are responsible for nursing home residents wandering off (also known as elopement) and either leaving their rooms — exposing them to a higher risk of falls — or leaving the facility altogether. Common circumstances include:
- Dementia and other conditions that cause disorientation
- Opposition to being in a nursing home
- Sleepwalking
Generally, a nursing home resident is there because they need a level of care and attention that they can only get from a 24-hour care facility. Wandering off means they are not getting the attention they need and they may be exposed to all types of dangers.
Asking Why the Nursing Home Didn't Take Appropriate Steps
Nursing homes are responsible for assessing which of their residents are at risk of elopement. When someone is in danger of wandering off, the nursing home is supposed to take steps to prevent that from happening.
By obtaining a doctor's order — or in emergency situations — nursing homes are able to install alarms to notify their staff about situations of possible elopement.
When nursing homes fail to install working alarms for residents who need them, or when their employees ignore these alarms and the result is that residents wander off, they can, and should, be held legally accountable for their negligence.
I am experienced at pursuing claims against nursing homes that have failed to take steps to prevent elopement. If your loved one has been injured due to a nursing home's negligence in this or any other area, contact me to discuss your options with an experienced trial lawyer.
