Most Los Angeles natives would agree that when nursing homes do not provide proper care to their residents, they must be held responsible for their negligent actions. Care-based institutions have a duty to care for their inhabitants. For this reason if someone is suffering from malnutrition, dehydration or neglect, the nursing home is not providing an appropriate living environment. Nevertheless, the elderly are vulnerable people and unfortunately, abuse occurs all too often.

In 2004, an elderly woman's body was found dead at the bottom of a stairwell. Sources say that the woman fell one story while attached to a wheelchair in a Florida nursing home. A source notes that the door to the stairwell was supposed to be secured; however, staff members disabled the alarm so that they could go for a smoke break. Ironically, this particular nursing home had a history of abuse complaints. Fortunately, the case recently resolved in $200 million in a verdict against the nursing home.

Sometimes, the warning signs of elder abuse or neglect are clear. For example, abuse is probably occurring if a fair amount of residents are ill. Remember, the elderly cannot always vocalize what is happening. In this particular story, a warning sign consisted of former complaints against the institution. It is important not to ignore these tell-tale signs.

If you suspect that a facility in the Los Angeles area is engaging in negligent or abusive practices against elderly residents, you should contact authorities immediately. Our loved ones have a right to live in a safe and appropriate environment.

Source: Tampa Bay Times, "Record-breaking $200 million nursing home verdict came without a defense," Stephen Nohlgren, Jan. 14, 2012