Senior Malnutrition Lawyer in Orange County
When an older adult loses significant weight, becomes dehydrated, or shows signs of nutritional deficiency, it can be easy to assume that declining health or appetite is simply part of aging. Sometimes it is. But when a caregiver or facility fails to provide adequate food, monitor a known nutritional problem, or respond to clear warning signs, senior malnutrition can become a form of neglect.
Our senior malnutrition lawyer in Orange County can help families determine what went wrong, who may be responsible, and what options may be available when inadequate care causes harm. At Travis Siegel, we focus exclusively on elder abuse and nursing home abuse cases.
We were founded in 2002, and we understand how difficult it can be to determine whether a loved one's decline reflects an underlying medical condition or inadequate care. Located near the intersection of the Santa Ana Freeway (the 5) and the Costa Mesa Freeway (the 55), our office offers easy travel for clients across Orange County, Los Angeles County, and throughout Southern California.
Call us today at (562) 414-5294.
When Poor Nutrition May Become Elder Neglect
Malnutrition is not simply a matter of being thin or losing an appetite. An older adult may become malnourished by not consuming enough food or fluids, or by failing to receive the nutrients needed to maintain good health. Medical conditions, swallowing difficulties, dental problems, medications, depression, memory issues, and restricted diets can all contribute.
That is why families should look beyond a single meal or a single instance of weight loss. The more important question is whether caregivers recognized the senior's needs and responded appropriately.
Watch for Changes in Weight and Health
Significant or unexplained weight loss can be an important warning sign, particularly when it occurs alongside dehydration, weakness, confusion, fatigue, or worsening medical conditions. A senior who routinely leaves meals untouched, has difficulty swallowing, or cannot physically feed themselves may need additional assistance.
Regular medical appointments can help establish a baseline and identify concerning changes. Families should also pay attention to whether caregivers are documenting and responding to those changes.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 562-414-5294 today!
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Choosing the right nursing home for your loved ones is a personal (and tough) decision. It is something you must decide on your own, or with the rest of your family. With that in mind, however, there are a few resources you can use to help with the decision.
The Health Facilities Consumer Information System provided by the state of California lets you search for different types of health facilities, including nursing homes. The Medicare website also provides a tool for finding nursing homes.
The Health Facilities Consumer Information System also lets you search for complaints against said facilities. You can use this tool to check on any homes you might be considering and see if complaints have been filed against them.
Remember, if you suspect any form of elderly abuse or negligence has occurred, trust your instincts and call us at Siegel Law. 562-414-5294
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Pressure sores, also called bed sores and pressure ulcers, are a common sign of nursing home abuse or neglect. They are caused by unrelieved pressure on the skin. Bed sores typically appear near areas where the bones are close to the skin: the hips, back, elbows, and ankles. When pressure sores first show up, they’re just skin irritation. With prompt treatment, they typically have no lasting effects. When not treated quickly, however, later stages can result in serious damage not only to the skin but also to muscle and bone.
The greatest tragedy of pressure sores is that they are relatively easy to prevent. Regular movement of a person restricted to a bed or wheelchair can help avoid pressure sores. Someone who must remain in bed should be moved about every two hours. The use of a pressure-reducing mattress can help. A proper diet, cleanliness, and daily exercise all help prevent pressure sores and eliminate the serious harm that can accompany them.
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The answer is no. Siegel Law takes all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that our clients owe the firm nothing for expenses unless they are awarded a monetary settlement or we receive a favorable verdict at trial. All expenses will be deducted from the settlement or jury verdict. Not a dime will be taken out of your pocket.
