Elder Law

Neglected resident, and boxing legend's sister, found frozen to death outside of assisted-living facility

By Levin & Perconti

Due to the neglect of facility staff, boxing legend Joe Louis's sister was found frozen to death just outside of the assisted-living center where she was a resident. The 92-year-old resident suffered from Alzheimer's disease, an illness often causing patients to wander, requiring constant supervision. The woman had been missing for a full day when she was found just outside of the facility dressed only in her pajamas and one shoe. She died of hypothermia and there was no indication of an intentional crime, but this tragedy could have easily been prevented had staff been less neglectful and if they had provided the care that was promised to the woman's loved ones. This kind of nursing home abuse and neglect is not just limited to poorly-run state facilities or similar homes. Even the family members of this country's legends, such as the great Joe Louis, are at risk.

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Full post as published by Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Blog on February 21, 2008 (boomark / email).