You'll hear a number of excuses for nursing home abuse: staff burnout, overwork, staffing cuts, and the like. While they may all be contributors, it's still the responsibility of the facility to take care of your loved one, and you should never just let the matter drop if you think a loved one has been abused.

Nursing home residents have rights, just like everyone else; and if you or a loved one has been subjected to any violation of those rights, not least nursing home abuse, you could and should sue for compensation. Don't remain silent; you'll just end up helping others get hurt in the long run.

When you consult with a prospective lawyer for your nursing home abuse case, take a close look at their office. Is it nice and clean, or shabby and messy? If the latter, it's a good likelihood that they're not very good at what they do. It's best to find someone with more pride in their office.