August 15, 2013

Nursing home abuse and neglect is a major problem across the United States, but especially in Pennsylvania. Data from the National Center for Elder Abuse shows at least one in 10 elderly citizens will be the victim of some kind of abuse or neglect each year. However, experts believe the number could be much higher if unreported incidents are taken into consideration.

One contributing factor to such abuse and neglect is the government’s use of guardianships in managing the care of those who are unable to make decisions for themselves. Guardianships have recently come under heavy scrutiny due to a lack of oversight that too often leads to cases of abuse and neglect.

An article from Public Source explained how several Pennsylvania cases have prompted citizens to call on lawmakers to more closely examine the guardianship program and its effectiveness in giving proper care to the elderly.

The cases of Pennsylvania Elder Abuse and Neglect examined in the article showed how guardianships had led to different types of patient abuse and lack of care, including exploitation, neglect, and abandonment.

Experts believe regulations requiring a guardian certification, and better tracking of these individuals to create a higher sense of accountability, are steps toward improving the program.

The Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers with Lundy Law acknowledge the complexities involved with the care of an elderly loved one and are here to help those whose loved ones have been the victims of abuse or neglect.