Nursing Home Abuse Caught On Hidden Camera May Change U.S. Laws

Little Rock, AR (Law Firm Newswire) July 26, 2013 – Videotaped nursing home abuse is typically irrefutable evidence in court.

“Oklahoma stepped up to the plate and signed a Bill into law that allows nursing home residents, or their family members, to install an e-monitoring system in the patient’s room. No one can stop a family member from doing that. It’s a good idea and has the capacity to change the law relating to nursing home abuse across the country,” stated Michael Smith, an Arkansas injury lawyer and Arkansas accident lawyer, practicing personal injury law in Arkansas.

The state of Oklahoma’s response to a serious case of elder abuse came on the heels of a disturbing videotaped incident in which two staff members were accused of stuffing a latex glove into a woman’s mouth and violently manhandling her. The family installed a camera in her room, as they were concerned that their mother’s behavior had changed drastically after moving into the nursing home residence.

“What they discovered would have remained undetected but for them installing a video camera,” Smith added. Elder care advocates say that this type of violence and elder abuse is not an isolated incident and many welcome laws which help to protect seniors in elder care facilities. Video cameras and other monitoring equipment can be another layer of protection for those who often cannot speak for themselves or protect themselves from abuse.

“Laws like this one are a step in the right direction,” suggested Smith. ”They act to deter staff from abusing people in their care. And of course, a camera works both ways —- to protect the residents and the staff.” With the rising number of seniors in the nation that may require nursing home care, elder care advocates are pushing for laws such as this one. Seniors are entitled to protection from abuse and violence. They do not deserve to live in fear during their remaining years.

“If you are aware of someone in your family that is in care and you have concerns about their treatment, my door is open to you. Together we can put a stop to nursing home abuse,” added Smith.

Learn more by contacting Arkansas personal injury lawyer Michael Smith at http://www.arkansaslawhelp.com.

Michael Smith
425 W. Capitol Av., Suite 3700
Little Rock, AR 72201
Call: 501.519.4357

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