The Hidden Dangers of Nursing Home Falls in Delaware
Nursing home falls are far more than unfortunate accidents; they are often warning signs of deeper issues involving neglect or inadequate care. In Delaware’s growing elderly population, these incidents are a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities among long-term care residents. While some falls may seem unpreventable due to a resident’s health condition or mobility issues, many occur as a direct result of negligence.
Understanding the hidden dangers of nursing home falls in Delaware can help families identify potential abuse and hold facilities accountable. If your loved one was injured in a fall at a nursing home, call us today to schedule your free consultation with a Delaware nursing home abuse lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson today.
Why Falls Are So Dangerous in Nursing Homes
Falls are the number one cause of injury-related deaths among adults aged 65 and older. In nursing homes, the risks are magnified due to residents’ frailty, existing health problems, and dependency on staff for basic needs. A single fall can lead to devastating outcomes such as:
- Hip fractures requiring surgery and long recovery times
- Traumatic brain injuries, especially in residents on blood thinners
- Severe bruising or lacerations that may lead to infection
Many residents never fully recover their independence after a fall, and some suffer permanent disabilities. The physical trauma is often accompanied by emotional distress, fear of falling again, and loss of confidence, all of which reduce the quality of life. When facilities fail to implement preventative measures, these injuries become a matter of liability.
Warning Signs of Senior Neglect in Delaware Facilities
Not every fall in a nursing home is purely accidental. In fact, repeated or unexplained falls may indicate senior neglect in Delaware nursing homes. Some common red flags that point to a deeper issue include:
- A pattern of falls occurring at similar times or in the same area
- Lack of documentation or vague incident reports
- Unwitnessed falls with no clear explanation from staff
Delaware law requires assisted living and skilled nursing facilities to create and follow individualized care plans that account for a resident’s risk of falling. When those plans are not updated, ignored, or improperly executed, it can constitute neglect. Staff shortages, poor training, and failure to assist with mobility devices all contribute to this growing problem.
The Legal Implications: Delaware Assisted Living Liability
Falls caused by neglect or unsafe conditions may lead to Delaware assisted living liability claims. Assisted living and nursing home facilities are legally obligated to provide a safe environment and adequate supervision. They may be held liable if a fall occurs due to:
- Wet floors or uneven surfaces that are not properly maintained
- Inadequate staffing, particularly during nighttime hours
- Failing to assist with toileting, transfers, or mobility needs
- Ignoring known medical conditions or medications that increase fall risk
An experienced Delaware nursing home abuse lawyer can investigate whether the facility violated its duty of care. This includes reviewing medical records, staffing logs, and surveillance footage to determine if neglect contributed to the fall. In cases of wrongful death, families may also be eligible to pursue a lawsuit for damages and closure.
Protecting Your Loved One After a Nursing Home Fall Injury in Delaware
If your loved one has suffered a nursing home fall injury in Delaware, time is of the essence. Immediate medical attention is critical, but so is documenting the circumstances surrounding the fall. Families should:
- Request a full incident report and care plan from the facility
- Take photographs of injuries and the area where the fall occurred
- Speak with other residents or visitors who may have witnessed the incident
You don’t have to face the aftermath of a nursing home fall alone. A skilled attorney can help determine whether your loved one’s injuries were preventable and whether compensation is possible.
Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson Today
If you suspect that a loved one’s fall was the result of neglect or unsafe conditions in a long-term care facility, the experienced team at Edelstein Martin & Nelson is here to help. Call (302) 295-5050 today to speak with a compassionate Delaware nursing home abuse lawyer and learn how we can help your family pursue justice.