Chemical Restraints: a Common Problem in Nursing Homes

A common form of nursing home abuse is chemical restraint. According to a recent article from the American Lawyer Academy, dangerous psychotropic drugs are being used to keep seniors quiet and docile. This illegal act plagues many nursing homes without family members even being aware of the practice.  The elderly need communication and physical activity just like anyone does, but they can be denied both when given powerful psychotropic drugs. When nursing homes are understaffed or more interested in profit than their residents' well being, then abuses like this can occur.

Family Members Should Be Vigilant

Family members should keep a close eye on relatives who are in nursing homes and watch for unusually lethargic behavior or any other marked changes in awareness level or ability to communicate. Overly medicating a person can have dangerous side effects as well causing confusion, imbalance, violence, and sometimes even death. Check to see what medications your loved one has been placed on if you observe anything that doesn't seem normal or right.

Nursing Home Abuse in St. Louis

If you suspect that a family member or friend is a victim of nursing home abuse, you need to contact a St. Louis personal injury attorney as quickly as possible for help.  At Schultz & Myers, we specialize in personal injury law and have won over $25 million in settlements and judgments for our clients in Missouri and Illinois. We are known for our high quality and dedicated service which is the basis for our success.  The elderly are already in a vulnerable position in life and rely on family to take care of them when they have reached a certain age. Do not allow their trust in you to be betrayed if you have any suspicions that they might be a victim of abuse; take the necessary actions to get it corrected.

Contact a St. Louis nursing home abuse attorney from our office for a free consultation and we will discuss what solutions are available to you.