Where Do I Report Nursing Home Abuse in Georgia?
Senior in the nursing home feeling scared of her caretaker.

If you suspect someone you know is being abused at a Georgia nursing home, it’s crucial to report it right away. The best option to report nursing home abuse in Georgia is to call the state’s Adult Protective Services (APS) agency. They can investigate and take action to hold them accountable.

While the police can investigate instances of abuse and initiate criminal proceedings, a Savannah nursing home abuse attorney can help you seek compensation for your loved one’s injuries and losses by filing a claim against the nursing home.

Are There Other Ways of Reporting Nursing Home Abuse in Georgia?

If you suspect nursing home abuse or elder abuse in Georgia, you have several options for reporting it beyond state government agencies. Here are some ways you can take action:

Georgia Aging and Disability Network

This statewide group is a network of organizations that work with and support older adults and their families. Contact them at:

Georgia Department of Community Health

This state agency oversees Medicaid and several other statewide health agencies. Report nursing home abuse at:

Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman

The Ombudsman program is an independent advocate for nursing home and assisted living facility residents. They investigate complaints and work to resolve issues related to abuse or neglect. Reach them at:

AARP Georgia

AARP provides resources and support for older adults, including those concerned about nursing home abuse. They offer educational materials on recognizing and reporting abuse, and they can connect you with local resources and advocacy groups. Contact AARP at:

Local Law Enforcement

If you believe the abuse involves criminal activity, contacting local law enforcement is essential. They can investigate the situation and, if necessary, take legal action when you call:

  • Phone – Dial 911 for emergencies
  • Non-Emergency – Contact your local police or sheriff’s department

By contacting these organizations, you can help protect nursing home residents and ensure that any suspected abuse is reported and dealt with appropriately.

What Signs of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect Should I Report?

Recognizing the signs of nursing home abuse or neglect is crucial to protecting family members. Here are some common warning signs to watch for and report if you suspect abuse or neglect:

  • Unexplained Injuries – Bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures that can’t be easily explained may indicate physical abuse. Pay attention to recurring injuries or those in unusual places like the torso or thighs.
  • Sudden Weight Loss or Dehydration – A family member appearing unusually thin, weak, or dehydrated could be a sign of neglect. Malnutrition and dehydration often occur when residents don’t get enough food or water.
  • Poor Hygiene – Neglect can also manifest in poor personal hygiene. If a family member is frequently dirty, smells bad, or has unkempt hair or nails, it may indicate that the nursing home staff isn’t providing proper care.
  • Emotional Withdrawal or Depression – Changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn, fearful, or unusually quiet, are often signs of emotional abuse or neglect. If your family member seems depressed or anxious, it’s vital to take these signs seriously.
  • Bedsores – Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, are a common sign of neglect, especially among those who are bedridden or have limited mobility. They occur when someone lies in one position for too long without being turned or moved.
  • Sudden Changes in Finances – Unexpected changes in your family member’s financial situation, such as missing money or unauthorized transactions, may indicate financial exploitation. Be on the lookout for unusual spending or changes to legal documents.

What Steps Should I Take If I Suspect Nursing Home Abuse in Georgia?

If you suspect that someone you know is suffering from abuse in a nursing home in Georgia, it’s critical to act quickly to protect their safety. The following are the steps you should take:

  • Document Everything – Start by keeping a detailed record of any signs of abuse or neglect you’ve noticed. This could include photographs of injuries, written notes of changes in behavior, or financial records showing unusual transactions. The more evidence you can gather, the stronger your case will be.
  • Speak with the Nursing Home Staff – If it’s safe to do so, talk to the nursing home staff about your concerns. Sometimes, what appears to be abuse might be a misunderstanding or the result of a medical condition. However, if the staff’s response seems dismissive or you suspect they’re involved in the abuse, taking further action is essential.
  • Report the Abuse – Contact the appropriate authorities to report your suspicions. You can report it to the Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman, the Georgia Department of Community Health, or local law enforcement. Be sure to give them all the evidence you’ve collected.
  • Protect Your Family Member’s Safety – If you believe your family member is in immediate danger, take steps to remove them from the nursing home. This might involve transferring them to another facility or temporarily bringing them home while the authorities investigate the situation.
  • Consult an Attorney – Consider speaking with a lawyer with experience handling nursing home abuse cases. They can help you understand your legal options, protect your family member’s rights, and pursue justice on their behalf.

Can I Seek Compensation from the Responsible Party for the Abuse?

Those who suffer abuse in nursing homes deserve and have the right to compensation for their injuries and other losses. By working with an experienced attorney, you can pursue compensation for:

  • Your family member’s medical expenses
  • Your family member’s pain and suffering
  • Any money your family member lost due to financial abuse or manipulation
  • Punitive damages, in cases of extreme or intentional abuse or neglect

Contact a Georgia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

We trust nursing homes to care for the most vulnerable members of our community. Holding them accountable through the legal system is critical when they break that trust. If you believe someone you know is experiencing nursing home abuse, contact Spiva Law Group immediately.

Our experienced attorneys can help you report the abuse to the authorities and file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your family member’s injuries. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.