Calgary Medical Malpractice Lawyers Representing Residents Affected by Nursing Home Negligence
The Canadian population is rapidly aging. By 2030, nearly one in four Canadians will be seniors (i.e. over 65). As our population gets older, many Canadians find themselves in assisted living arrangements, including nursing homes (also known as long-term care facilities).
Long-term care facilities provide accommodation as well as around the clock medical care and monitoring to individuals with complex health needs who are unable to live at home, or in a retirement community. Given the level of care that should be provided by these facilities, we always hope that our loved ones who may live there are safe and healthy. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Numerous residents of nursing homes are seriously or even fatally injured every year due to nursing home negligence or elder abuse. This can provide grounds for a medical malpractice claim.
At Cuming & Gillespie LLP our experienced lawyers can pursue successful claims for injuries sustained by your loved ones due to nursing home negligence. When you hire us, you can rest assured that you are getting the best and most effective representation available. We have the knowledge, experience, and compassion to help you with your claim and have a proven track record of obtaining significant compensation for each of our clients.
Nursing Home Negligence and Elder Abuse in Alberta
According to the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council, approximately 23,000 Alberta seniors experience some form of negligence or abuse. This includes:
- Physical abuse;
- Sexual assault;
- Psychological abuse;
- Emotional abuse;
- Neglect;
- Withholding or providing improper or inadequate food (malnutrition, dehydration); and
- Withholding or providing improper or inadequate medical care or medication (including prescription theft or misuse).
All these incidents can, and unfortunately do, occur in long-term care facilities. If you suspect your loved one is being subject to mistreatment, neglect, negligence, or other misconduct, it is imperative to take action right away to ensure their safety, including consulting with a lawyer with significant experience assisting families in such situations.
What Should You Do if You Suspect Negligence at a Long-Term Care Facility
If you think your loved one is being abused or neglected in their nursing home, there are several things you should do as soon as possible.
First, take note of their physical and mental condition. Second, document the condition of the facility, including the room they live in, the common areas, and any treatment rooms. Documenting evidence of abuse, including pictures of bruises, and the state in which your loved one is in, can be very useful in proving your case. Third, contact a lawyer with experience handling nursing home negligent claims.
Regardless of what evidence you have or do not have, if you believe your loved one is being abused or neglected, or you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of nursing home staff, it is always a good idea to speak with a lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your options, and can involve the police if necessary. A lawyer can also make sure that every possible course of action is pursued and will prepare a lawsuit case against the facility and anyone else who may be responsible.
At Cuming & Gillespie LLP we understand the stress of dealing with an injured, abused, or neglected family member. We also know that this can be compounded by the fear of having to spend a lot of money to get legal help. It is for this reason that we do not require a retainer payment or any other money up front. Our policy is simple: we do not charge you any fees unless we are successful. Our goal is securing the safety of your loved one, and taking legal action against anyone who may be responsible for their pain and suffering.
Compassionate Calgary Nursing Home Negligence Lawyers
At Cuming & Gillespie LLP, we have more than 20 years of experience representing clients in medical malpractice, elder abuse, and nursing home negligence claims. If you are a family member concerned with a loved one in a long-term care facility, we understand that your biggest worry is getting your family member to safety, and getting some accountability for their injury. Contact us today at 403-571-0555 or online to book a free consultation. We will review your case and provide you with an assessment as to whether you have a viable claim, and help you recover any financial compensation.