Nearly every older adult, especially the elderly, understands the risk of a hip fracture. Hip fractures are a common and serious injury among these older adults, particularly those over the age of 65. They can occur for a variety of different reasons but are most often associated with falls, especially in scenarios where the elderly person is just attempting to go about their normal daily activities. While independence for some elderly people is a top priority, the consequences that result from a hip fracture after a fall can be severe, and in some cases, fatal.
As if hip fractures weren’t dangerous enough on their own, when the elderly person resides in a nursing home, they can result from abuse. Nursing home abuse is a widespread problem in California and virtually everywhere else in the country. While the effects of nursing home abuse are also varied, it’s often the physical injuries like hip fractures that are the most consequential for your loved ones.
Contact Maison Law Today For a Free Consultation
At Maison Law, our team of experienced California nursing home abuse lawyers is well aware that your elderly loved one is in an extremely vulnerable position if they live in a nursing home. When they around-the-clock care and assistance, it can make even the most simple tasks difficult. Worse yet, it creates a level of dependence on often overworked caregivers that fosters an environment for abuse.
Nursing home abuse, no matter why it happens, is unacceptable. If you believe your loved one is suffering abuse at their nursing home, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Are Hip Fractures So Serious?
Hip fractures are considered serious because they often occur in older individuals who have weakened bones due to osteoporosis and frequently lead to irreversible mobility issues and a loss of independence.
The hip joint is also a weight-bearing joint, so a fracture can cause significant pain and disability. Additionally, hip fractures can lead to complications such as:
- Blood clots
- Infections
- Pneumonia
Hip fractures can even increase the risk of death, especially in elderly people. According to the Mayo Clinic, common hip fractures in elderly people include the following:
- Intertrochanteric fractures – These fractures occur at the top of the thigh bone (femur), near the hip joint.
- Subtrochanteric fractures – hese fractures occur below the greater trochanter, which is the bony prominence at the top of the thigh bone.
- Femoral neck fractures – These fractures occur near the neck of the thigh bone and can disrupt the stability of the hip joint.
- Acetabular fractures – These fractures occur in the socket of the hip joint and can cause instability in the joint.
- Stress fractures – These fractures occur due to repetitive stress or overuse, and are more common in older people with osteoporosis.
It is important to note that early intervention and rehabilitation are key to maximizing recovery from a hip fracture. Still, with any surgery and other treatment options, the complications that come from these injuries can have serious effects on the health and well-being of your elderly loved one. Worse yet, if the hip fracture is caused by a fall because of nursing home abuse, it can be even more frustrating.
How Does Nursing Home Abuse Cause Hip Fractures?
Hip fractures are a significant concern for elderly individuals, especially those who live in nursing homes. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is a contributing factor to the high rate of hip fractures in this population, with many of the same causes of other injuries also resulting in these debilitating injuries. Here are a few of the most common causes of hip fractures as it relates to nursing home abuse:
- Neglect – Neglectful nursing home staff can fail to provide proper assistance to residents who are at risk for falls, such as those with mobility issues or those who require help getting in and out of bed. This can result in falls and hip fractures.
- Physical Abuse – Physical abuse by nursing home staff can also result in hip fractures. For example, a resident may be pushed, pulled, or lifted inappropriately, causing a fall and resulting in a hip fracture.
- Restraint Use – The use of restraints in nursing homes is also a potential cause of hip fractures. When residents are restrained, they may be unable to move freely, which increases their risk of falls and hip fractures.
On top of any hip fractures or other injuries, it’s extremely important for families and loved ones to be aware of other signs of nursing home abuse, such as:
- Bruises, cuts, or broken bones
- Failure to provide necessary medical treatment or medication
- Failure to properly assess and address hip fractures or other injuries
- Delay in seeking medical attention for an illness or injury
- Improper administration of medication
- Failure to monitor and manage chronic conditions
- Failure to maintain a clean and safe environment
Further, you need to take action if they suspect that abuse may be occurring. In cases where hip fractures have been caused by nursing home abuse, it may be possible to pursue legal action against the responsible parties.
What Legal Remedies Are In Place For Nursing Home Abuse in California?
California law has several mechanisms in place that serve as legal remedies for victims of nursing home abuse. The main legal option victims have is filing a civil lawsuit for damages. It is here that working with our team of experienced California nursing home abuse lawyers is critical. We can help you determine the liable parties, as well as gather any evidence and eventually, file your complaint.
In a civil lawsuit for nursing home abuse, the following damages are recoverable:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
It’s important to understand that every case is unique. Even in cases where your elderly loved one suffered a hip fracture because of nursing home abuse, no lawsuit is guaranteed a positive outcome. At the same time, our team of experienced nursing home abuse lawyers knows how to best position a case to recover the maximum available support.
Compassionate California Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers
At Maison Law, our team of compassionate, knowledgeable California nursing home abuse lawyers can help you or any elderly nursing home resident if they are being abused. Nursing home abuse is never acceptable and when it results in serious injuries like hip fractures, nursing homes need to be held accountable.
With our experience and proven track record of success, we can help you do just that. To learn more about our process or your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation.
