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Nursing home abuse allegations among concerns for Michigan agency

Caring for those who are unable to do so for themselves, whether it is due to illness or age, should be the top priority of those who run nursing home facilities. Unfortunately, there are situations where Michigan residents residing in nursing homes across the state are left vulnerable to mistreatment from those they depend on the most. Reported incidences of nursing home abuse are supposed to be filed with the state who will, according to regulations, follow up with the claims to ensure that alleged victims are receiving proper treatment.

In a recent report, a state audit of the Department of Human Services, which handles cases regarding adult protective care, revealed that many of the cases filed were not addressed as they should have been. In certain cases where an investigation appeared to be necessary, the agency is accused of denying requests for a proper investigation. The audit also reports that there were incidences in which investigations were not launched in a timely fashion, nor were appropriate cases referred to police. Additionally, the agency is accused of failing to train its staff accordingly and not investigating abuse allegations.

The agency has the responsibility of ensuring that vulnerable adults are not subjected to incidences of neglect or other forms of abuse according to the reported state Social Welfare Act. In one case, an elderly woman was subjected to alleged financial abuse by her daughter, who also served as her legal guardian. In lieu of investigating the claim, the agency reportedly sent the daughter a letter. As a means to address the claims found within the report, the agency has begun implementing a system so that it can combat the issues.

Reports like these are bound to make many Michigan residents concerned over the welfare of their loved ones who may find themselves in need of a nursing home facility. No one wants their loved one to be subjected to nursing home abuse. There is hope that the changes that the Department of Human Services will hold their staff accountable for their reported shortcomings to some of the most vulnerable people in the state. For those whose loved one has been injured due to suspected nursing home abuse, a civil lawsuit may be possible to help hold the home or care worker responsible.

Source: Detroit Free Press, "Audit says DHS mishandled allegations of adult abuse", Paul Egan, July 9, 2014

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