As you go through life, sometimes it’s not manageable to care for your parents and your children while continuing to maintain your own lifestyle. Nursing homes are a great way to give your loved ones the attention and care that they deserve. Services are in place to provide adequate care for elders in these homes. In New Jersey, there are laws in place to create a healthy and stable environment in nursing homes.

The Nursing Home Reform Act ensures the safety of each elder placed in the care of a nursing home staff. It is meant to look out for the well-being of each individual. This act makes sure that nursing homes follow a set of guidelines and procedures to support those who are living in nursing homes.

Through this act, there are required services that nursing homes must provide to their clients. This includes periodic assessments for each client and a care plan for each member. It also requires nursing, dietary, social, pharmaceutical and rehabilitation services. All of these guidelines protect the rights of your family members that may be living in one of these homes.

Unfortunately, abuse can happen within nursing homes. Some common forms of abuse include physical abuse through hitting, bed sores or ulcers from neglect, sexual assault and more. If a family member is harmed in a nursing home, consult an attorney for legal advice. Your loved one has rights that nursing homes cannot deny them. They may be held responsible for what happens to your loved one under their care.

Residents in a nursing home should be informed of their rights before habitation. They should be informed of all services and fees in writing before entering into the home. Residents have a right to their own privacy. This includes keeping personal belongings. When being medicated, they should be informed of their condition and any medications they are being prescribed. However, residents also have the right to refuse any treatment.

There are many rights that nursing home residents possess that can help them stay safe and content. If you suspect that abuse has occurred, an attorney can help prove your case.

If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for matters of personal injury, medical malpractice, medical device injuries, unsafe drug injuries, consumer protection, bankruptcy, SSD, or criminal law in New Jersey, please contact Tomes Law Firm, PC and we will be happy to assist you.