If you suspect a loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, knowing who to contact can make all the difference. In Maine, several state agencies are responsible for investigating reports of nursing home abuse, and they have the authority to intervene, assess care conditions, and refer cases for legal action if necessary. At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., our nursing home abuse attorneys in Maine work with families to report abuse, protect vulnerable residents, and pursue justice through legal action when facilities fail to provide safe and respectful care.
Whether you’re concerned about physical injuries, emotional abuse, or the overall quality of care in a long-term care facility, we can help you understand your options and guide you through the complaint process.
Who handles nursing home abuse investigations in Maine?
There are two organizations primarily responsible for responding to and investigating nursing home abuse in Maine:
Adult Protective Services (APS)
Maine’s Adult Protective Services is part of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and serves as the first responder to many reports of elder abuse. APS investigates claims involving nursing facility residents, home care recipients, and other adults with disabilities or special care needs.
- APS determines whether abuse or neglect has occurred.
- If APS lacks legal authority (such as in certain facility-related cases), it refers the matter to licensing agencies or law enforcement.
- To report suspected abuse to APS, visit the Maine APS website.
Maine Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is an independent agency that advocates for nursing home residents and investigates complaints related to safety and elder abuse. Ombudsman staff often coordinate with APS to ensure residents’ rights are protected and concerns are addressed.
- The Ombudsman helps family members file complaints.
- They work to resolve disputes between residents and nursing facilities.
- Visit the Maine Ombudsman website.
What are the common signs of nursing home abuse?
Abuse or neglect may not always be obvious. Some nursing home residents are unable to communicate clearly, making it crucial for family members to watch for warning signs, such as:
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures
- Bed sores, poor hygiene, or malnutrition
- Sudden confusion, fear, or withdrawal from others
- Soiled clothing or inappropriate attire for the weather
- Staff preventing access to your loved one
- Signs of overmedication or untreated medical issues
If any of these signs are present, report the situation to APS or the Ombudsman. For emergencies, call 911 immediately.
What rights do victims of nursing home abuse have?
Victims of nursing home abuse or neglect have legal rights under both state and federal law. In Maine, residents of long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and home care settings are protected by laws that ensure a basic standard of quality care and safety. Families can take legal action by filing civil claims against negligent care providers or by submitting formal complaints to the relevant regulatory agencies.
Our nursing home abuse lawyers help families navigate the complexities of nursing home law, including claims involving home abuse and neglect. We offer legal consultations to explain your options if you’re considering a lawsuit or simply need help reporting nursing home abuse.
Talk to a Maine nursing home abuse lawyer
No one should suffer mistreatment in a nursing home. If your loved one has experienced abuse in a nursing facility, assisted living facility, or home care setting, you may be able to take legal action and help prevent others from being harmed.
Our team at Shaheen & Gordon has helped many families fight for justice and hold negligent care facilities accountable. Call (800) 451-1002 or contact us online for a free and confidential consultation. We’re here to help protect your loved one and guide your family forward.
