According to the National Council on Aging, up to 5 million older adults are abused annually, many of whom live in nursing homes.
Kline & Specter stands out as one of the nation’s leading law firms handling complex and catastrophic personal injury cases, including those involving nursing home abuse. Backed by more than 50 attorneys – including five who are also medical doctors – our firm combines extensive legal knowledge in a range of practice areas with in-depth medical insight to build powerful cases.
With a history of securing some of the largest verdicts in Pennsylvania and across the country, Kline & Specter is trusted by families seeking accountability for elderly loved ones.
Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, each causing serious harm to vulnerable residents. Common types include:
- Physical abuse: Hitting, unnecessary force, or excessive restraint.
- Emotional abuse: Humiliation or threats.
- Neglect: Failing to meet basic needs, such as hygiene, nutrition, or medication.
- Financial exploitation: The unauthorized use of a resident’s money or assets.
- Sexual abuse: Non-consensual sexual contact or behavior toward residents.
These acts may be committed by staff, other residents, or even visitors. They often go unreported without vigilant oversight from loved ones.
Signs Your Loved One May Be Suffering
Signs of nursing home abuse can be physical, emotional, or behavioral:
- Physical abuse: Unexplained abrasions and broken bones, frequent falls, or bruises.
- Emotional abuse: Withdrawal, fearfulness, or agitation around certain staff members.
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, bedsores, or unsanitary living conditions.
- Financial abuse: Missing funds or unauthorized account activity.
- Sexual abuse: Bruising around sensitive areas, torn clothing, or sudden fear of being touched.
Because residents may be unable or afraid to speak up, these warning signs should be taken seriously.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse or Neglect
If you suspect abuse or neglect, act quickly to protect your loved one. Steps to take include:
- Document visible injuries, unsanitary conditions, or unusual behavior with photos, notes, and dates.
- Report your concerns to the nursing home’s management.
- File a complaint with your state’s Department of Health.
If the situation appears urgent or life-threatening, contact Adult Protective Services or your local law enforcement agency. Consulting with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can also help you understand your legal options and next steps.
How Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys Can Help
Nursing home abuse attorneys help families hold negligent facilities accountable and seek compensation for the harm caused.
They gather evidence, interview witnesses, review medical records, and work with experts to build a strong case. Attorneys also handle communication with the facility, insurance companies, and opposing counsel, allowing families to focus on their loved one’s well-being.
Why Choose Kline & Specter?
Kline & Specter is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished personal injury law firms in the nation, with a proven record in nursing home abuse litigation. The firm has recovered billions in verdicts and settlements. They have also secured more large verdicts than any other Pennsylvania law firm over the past two decades.
In 2023, attorneys Colin Burke and Lorraine Donnelly – who leads the firm’s elder abuse litigation – won a $19 million jury verdict for the family of a woman who died due to severe neglect. It was the largest nursing home neglect verdict in Pennsylvania since 1994.
With more than 50 attorneys, including five who are also doctors, Kline & Specter brings unmatched legal and medical insight to each case. Their commitment to justice, deep resources, and consistent success in high-stakes litigation make them a powerful ally for families seeking answers and accountability in cases of severe nursing home abuse and neglect.
Discuss Your Case Today
If you believe a nursing home has caused harm to someone you care about, Kline & Specter is ready to stand by your side. Our team has the experience, resources, and commitment to pursue justice for victims of abuse and neglect in Philadelphia and beyond.
To discuss your case and learn about the next steps you can take, call us at 215-772-1000 or submit our contact form.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm works with local attorneys in each state as applicable.
