Resources to Help You

Why does elder abuse and neglect happen?

Many factors can contribute to an elder abuse situation. Sometimes, there is misunderstanding or ignorance on the part of the caregiver, such as when a long-term care staff person does not understand the effects of aging. In nursing homes, in particular, staff may be prone to commit elder abuse because of insufficient staffing, lack of training, or stressful working conditions.

If you live in a nursing home or residential care facility, you have the same rights you would if you still lived in your own home.

As a consumer of long-term care, you are entitled to a safe and healthy home, and the safekeeping of your belongings. You also have the right to be treated with dignity and consideration at all times.

Involuntary discharge from a facility is among the most common issues confronting residents and their families.

The goal of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is to work toward resolution and ensure all avenues have been explored in an effort to prevent involuntary discharges.

ABLE and LAWO

Legal Aid of Western Ohio, Inc. (LAWO) is a non-profit regional law firm that provides high quality legal assistance in civil matters to help eligible low-income individuals and groups in western Ohio achieve self-reliance, and equal justice and economic opportunity. LAWO and Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE) are partner organizations.