With the prevalence of substance abuse increasing across almost all demographics, it is no surprise that the issue of substance abuse has arisen with respect to nursing home residents. While it may seem far-fetched to imagine nursing home patients being addicted to prescription medication or even illegal drugs, the reality is that substance abuse is a potential problem for these individuals, just as much as it is for other groups of people.
For one thing, not all nursing home residents are elderly; about 15% of residents nationwide are under the age of 65. With residents spanning a wider age range, it is not so surprising that substance abuse has risen among residents. Since residents may be of drastically different ages, it becomes more difficult for nursing homes to adequately staff, supervise, and meet all of their residents’ individual needs. Plus, nursing homes tend to gravitate toward the needs and desires of elderly residents, which may leave other younger residents out altogether. Feeling left out, when combined with possible mental and/or physical illness, can result in a higher risk of substance abuse among some nursing home residents.
Other characteristics that nursing home residents may possess also may make them more susceptible to substance abuse. Many, if not most, nursing home residents are vulnerable and subject to both emotional and physical stressors. A large number of residents also regularly take medication that has the potential for abuse and dangerous effects if not properly prescribed, dosed correctly, and carefully monitored. These characteristics in nursing home residents create a much higher risk of substance abuse.
The nursing home abuse and neglect lawyers of Bonner & Vaughan are experienced in ensuring that nursing homes and other long-term care facilities live up to reasonable standards in prescribing, administering, and monitoring the medication given to their patients. When a nursing facility fails to do so, and injury to a resident occurs, the nursing facility may be liable for those injuries. We know how to investigate your case, assess your situation and determine whether you or your loved one has any potential claims against nursing home staff or the nursing home itself. Contact Boller & Vaughan today and learn how we can help you through this difficult situation.
Coumadin, and its generic counterpart, warfarin, are common medications taken by older individuals, particularly if they are receiving long-term care. As many as one out of every six nursing home residents take Coumadin or warfarin, […]
ABC News reported on the results of a study by members of the Special Investigations Division of the House Government Reform Committee concerning nursing home abuse that was published earlier this year. This study found […]
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We live in Friendship, Wisconsin, and Boller & Vaughan came to our doorstep to discuss our mother’s wrongful death claim on a Saturday morning. Not only were we pleased with the large recovery, we were so thankful to have lawyers who were willing to explain to us every twist and turn along the way. It is great to know there is a law firm that will fight for the rights of elderly people all over Wisconsin.
Mr. Boller and Ms. Vaughan were incredible in working on my case and my daughter’s case. I was out of work and in the hospital with a new baby. Mr. Boller and Ms. Vaughan protected our rights and it was a pleasure to work with them. I hope never to be in another motor vehicle accident, however, if I am and I am injured, I will contact Boller & Vaughan immediately.
I was referred to Michelle through a friend. I have never had a better experience. It took a little over a year to get my settlement but the staff there stayed in constant contact and kept me in the loop. Oh, and Michelle actually got me MORE money than we discussed. I will refer anyone to this firm. Words cannot do justice the thanks that I have for Michelle and her staff (Mary especially) thank you guys so much!
After my husband died as a result of a motor vehicle accident, Boller & Vaughan spent countless hours talking with me, meeting with me in person, and making sure that I was okay. The drunk driver who hit us did not have any insurance, and we had to make a claim through our own insurance. Boller & Vaughan was fantastic at explaining the law to me and the handling of our claims.
After my son was injured in a daycare setting, Ms. Vaughan took the time to thoroughly investigate our case and my son’s injuries. Michele was approachable and had answers to our questions. Talking with her helped to relieve many of our anxieties.
