What is an elder abuse/nursing home negligence?

A claim can be filed for negligence when an elderly patient suffers an injury or death as a result of neglect in a nursing home. For the most part, these claims are similar to any claim of negligence by a patient in a hospital.

Elder abuse is an umbrella term referring to any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person who causes harm or serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. Arizona revised statute 46-454 requires those having the responsibility for the care of an incapacitated or vulnerable adult--or has been given responsibility of a specific area of the adult's concerns--and has reason to believe that abuse or neglect has occurred, he/she must immediately report the abuse.

The abuse may fall into one of several different types: physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional or psychological abuse, among others.