Bed Bugs in Assisted Living Facilities

If you believe that you or a close family member has been impacted by a bed bug infestation in an assisted living facility, you may be entitled to compensation. Bed Bug victims in these situations can seek compensation for negligence behind a bed bug problem, particularly for elderly residents who are unable to properly communicate these issues. 

Things You Should Know

If you or a loved one are a resident at an assisted living facility or retirement home, there are important facts to understand about these insects. Depending on how long you have been associated with one of these facilities, chances are you have already dealt with an infestation in your life.

Bed bugs can be extremely difficult to remove in comparison with relatable creatures (ants, spiders, roaches etc..) for the following reasons:

• Bed Bugs can be resistant to common pesticides, especially pyrethroids (used by 95% of pest control companies). This means if you have your local exterminator treat for bed bugs, the chances are it’ll be unsuccessful.
• These insects can be very difficult to find (they are only active at night). If you see bed bugs during the day that can be an indication of a very heavy infestation. They can be very good at hiding in small holes and cracks.
• Bed bugs are hitchhikers. These bugs can spread repeatedly when introduced to an assisted living facility due to people living in close quarters with one another. Typically residents interact with one another, which can lead to the spread of infections and allergic reactions.
• Bed Bugs don’t need Males to reproduce (This can be terrible in a severe infestation).

How to Remove a Bed Bug Infestation at an Assisted Living Facility

It is the job of the owner or operator to ensure a safe and healthy environment for its elderly residents. If an infestation hasn’t happened already, you’ll want to ensure they have a proactive bed bug plan, which should include the following elements.

• Make sure to submit a written complaint or inquiry regarding an existing, past, or possible further infestation.
• Inquire about clean facilities with sterilization processes to ensure mitigation of damage should an infestation occur.
• Make sure you and your peers know how to inspect for bed bugs (The residents and the staff should know how to spot an infestation.

These can be Sensitive Situations

These types of cases require the utmost sensitivity when dealing with nursing home bed bug issues. You need to go through the right channels in order to get the compensation you deserve, as the owner/operator will do their best to try and cover up the situation.

Knowing the complications that a bed bug infestation can cause: Assisted Living Facility Owners and Operators will do their best to avoid potential harm to their reputation. These issues are particularly difficult when it comes to commercial facilities that are managed by property management companies.

When to Sue for Bed Bug Bites from your Assisted Living Facility

The physical and emotional damage from numerous bed bug bites can lead to severe distress that could have potential lasting effects. Medical expenses and the costs of moving to a different facility can potentially cause stress to its victims.

The insurance business tries to dodge the treatment of bed bug bite injuries with diligence because of a lack of understanding of injury severity. It is recommended that you get help finding an experienced bed bug attorney who has experience with assisted living facility claims.

IF there are negligent parties that can claim responsibility you may be eligible for both monetary and non-monetary compensation. Let us help you find an experienced bed bug lawyer that can run you through your options and see if you have a case.