Alden Village North Negligence Lawyers

Whether you’re looking for a permanent residence or day services for a special needs loved one, you want to find them a facility that not only provides the right kinds of services and programs but that does so with safety and respect as top priorities. Luckily there are plenty of facilities with these qualities, but there are also some that may be questionable. How do you find the right one?

First, do your research. Look online for ratings from government agencies if available, or just reviews from other families. Organizations that serve special needs clients may also be able to point you in the right direction.

You want a facility that has a proven history of high-quality care as well as all the necessary services your loved one requires. As you research, make a list of facilities in your area that meet both these criteria.

Every facility is going to advertise as if it’s the best option out there, so you need to go see each first hand. Schedule tours of all the facilities on your list. On these tours, pay attention to the cleanliness of the property and how staff interact with clients. Bring a list of probing questions with you to ask about staff qualifications and the facility’s protocols and best practices.

After doing your due diligence to pick the perfect facility for your special needs relative, there are still precautions you can take to minimize the risk of them suffering any neglect or abuse.

If your family member is taking up residence in the facility, communicate and visit often so you can monitor their care and they can tell you about anything amiss. If your family member will continue to live with you, talk to them every day about their activities at the facility and watch for any changes in behavior after spending time there.

Victims of abuse often display signs of trauma. Educate yourself on what these are so you can spot them quickly if necessary. The following may not apply to every case, but will give you a starting point:

• Unusual violent or withdrawn behavior
• Frequent trouble sleeping
• Unexplained injuries like bruises, burns, or scars
• Instances of wandering or elopement
• Weight loss or malnourishment not due directly to an illness
• Frequent trips to the emergency room or doctor
• Poor hygiene or unwashed clothes or hair
• Frequently misplaced or lost personal items
• A lack of necessities, including utilities, water, and food
• A dirty room or bathroom

If you notice any new, troubling behavior in your loved one or witness something wrong at the facility yourself, take immediate action. Document your experiences and speak to management. They should take all your concerns seriously and take measures to fix the issue so it doesn’t happen again. However, if they dismiss your experiences or fail to take any action, it may be time to seek legal counsel and determine if your loved one has suffered personal injury as defined by the law.