Falls are a significant concern in older populations, especially within nursing home communities. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injuries for people aged 65 and older in Connecticut. Many older adults have a fear of falling, and for good reason. Falls can contribute to severe injuries, complications, and loss of independence in an already vulnerable population.

If your loved one has fallen in a Torrington nursing home, the facility may be at fault. Even though falls are common among older adults, negligence and abuse can easily contribute to these dangerous accidents. Contact the nursing home attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, to discuss the possibility of holding the nursing home accountable for your loved one’s fall.

Preventing Falls in Connecticut Nursing Homes

Nursing homes in Connecticut have a duty to their patients, and when they are negligent in that duty, the resulting injuries can be life-threatening or even fatal. All falls cannot be prevented, but there are many ways that nursing homes can minimize the risk for their aging residents:

  • Complete a fall risk assessment
  • Review medication lists for side effects
  • Offer exercise and other activities to increase strength and balance
  • Provide appropriate footwear
  • Limit tripping hazards and keep walkways clear
  • Install grips, handrails, and other assistive equipment for balancing
  • Ensure all areas are properly lit
  • Make devices like walkers and canes available when needed
  • Supervise high-risk residents at all times of ambulation
  • Lower the bed
  • Soft floor mats
  • Bed alarms
  • Chair alarms
  • Dycem non-slip mat on the wheelchair, if used for mobility
  • Seatbelts

Finding the best nursing home for a loved one is challenging, and there are numerous factors to consider when weighing the options. However, few people expect their elderly family members to experience neglect or abuse at the hands of caregivers. If you suspect that nursing home negligence or abuse is to blame for a recent fall, contact D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC.

Injuries and Complications Caused by Nursing Home Falls

Nursing home negligence is far more common than many people realize, and the damage caused by facility staff who do not prioritize resident care is substantial. Because falls are already a common issue for older adults, nursing home facilities should be taking extra precautions to prevent these accidents.

Without the necessary care and preventive measures, falls can and do occur, causing injuries like:

  • Broken bones
  • Hip fractures
  • Brain bleeds
  • Head injuries
  • Spine injuries
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Bruising
  • Death

In addition to the injuries caused directly by falls, these accidents can also lead to complications and associated issues like:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Loss of mobility
  • Bedsores
  • Infections
  • Complications of existing conditions

Contact an Attorney After a Nursing Home Fall in Torrington

Caregiver negligence or abuse that results in injury to an aging loved one is inexcusable, and our goal at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, is to hold the at-fault party liable for the harm they’ve caused. Falling is a serious concern for older adults, and nursing home staff should be doing everything they can to minimize this risk, not contribute to it. Contact our nursing home negligence attorneys to discuss your loved one’s fall and see if a legal claim may be an option.

Schedule your free consultation today.