When the families of elderly nursing home residents suspect that their loved ones are being abused, there are several options available to them. However, families should be aware that some of these remedies may be more profitable than others. The steps to rectifying abusive nursing home situations do not have to be taken in order. Several steps may be taken at one time, and this may be one of the best ways to ensure that abusive behaviors by nursing home staff are stopped and corrected. Ways to combat nursing home abuse include frequent visits, speaking with nursing home staff, filing a complaint with state licensing and certification, and contacting an attorney. By taking these measures, families can make certain that their elderly loved one receives the proper care and attention they need.

Frequent visits at various times on different days can help families better evaluate the level of care their loved one is receiving. Visiting the nursing home during morning, afternoon, and evening hours on weekdays, weekends, and holidays can help families determine if their loved one is receiving adequate care on a 24 hour, 7 day per week basis. If families feel that their loved one is not receiving the necessary care, they should speak with nursing home staff. Families will want to communicate with not only nurses and aides but with the nursing home administrator, social worker, and the director of nurses. Additionally, families will want to consult with their loved one's doctor to better ascertain the level of care being provided to their loved one.

Filing a complaint with state licensing and certification should also be undertaken when families suspect their loved one is being abused by nursing home staff. State licensing and certification will investigate the complaint and take the appropriate actions as necessary. One of the most helpful steps an abuse victim's family can take is hiring the services of an attorney. An attorney can be of invaluable assistance throughout all stages of the investigation process. They may help with filing a complaint, and they may wish to interview nursing home staff to determine if the family's loved one has been the victim of abuse. If warranted, an attorney can file a lawsuit against the nursing home in an effort to obtain compensation for the abuse suffered by the family's loved one.