They cared for us when we were children. Now many of our elderly are virtually helpless and depend on nursing homes and other care facilities for their very lives.

Abuse and neglect still occur despite federal and state laws and the public attention the issue has received. The elderly, individuals with special needs, and other vulnerable adults deserve better.

Watch for signs of mistreatment of your loved one, including bed sores, malnutrition, dehydration, injury due to falls, weight loss, bruises, and poor hygiene. Call the Woods Law Firm, P.C., immediately if you are concerned. Offenses include:

• Physical abuse
• Financial abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Other forms of abuse and neglect

State and federal laws such as the Nursing Home Reform Act mandate that nursing homes promote the “highest practicable” physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of elderly and vulnerable people. The law does not allow for excuses such as inadequate staff, or high costs. We are talking about people’s most basic needs.