“There is no more justified use of our courts than to prosecute those who abuse and neglect the aging patients they are entrusted to care for.”

- Michael D. Carter, Jr.
Attorney, Horwitz, Horwtiz & Assoc. Ltd

Despite routine claims that Medicare and Medicaid are to blame, failing to provide adequate funding to enhance quality of care and improve staffing levels within nursing homes and long-term care facilities, nothing could be farther from the truth.

In fact, progressive facilities (although few in numbers, but growing) have cut budgets substantially while increasing staff levels when a heightened “total patient care” approach has been adopted and implemented.

No one wants to believe, or can even fathom that trained and licensed staff at a skilled nursing facility would abuse or injure their elderly loved one.

Who could imagine purposeful neglect; the vulnerable and the weak left unattended in soiled clothing and bedding for days, or fed anything less than a nutritional, balanced diet. Yet, these substandard conditions along with over-medicating, restricted physical activity and poor hygiene continue to be commonplace within an industry of terror against our frail and aging.

One of the biggest challenges we face is educating the public regarding the absolute failure of our current system of care within nursing homes and long-term care environments.

The time for critical action from lawmakers and those who have been entrusted to govern oversight of nursing homes and long-term facilities has long passed. Still by understanding the right questions to ask ahead of time and knowing how to investigate a facility properly, you can provide a higher standard of care for your loved ones.

Horwitz, Horwitz and Associates is dedicated to the pursuit of dignity and quality care for residents of skilled nursing homes and long-term care facilities in Illinois.

If you suspect abuse and/or neglect of a loved one, or if your family rights have been violated, please contact our office for a free consultation with an experienced attorney immediately.

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions regarding nursing home abuse and neglect, visit our FAQ’s.