CINCINNATI, Ohio – A Cincinnati family has taken legal action against a nursing home in Ohio, alleging negligence and wrongful death in the case of Dolores Niederhelman, who passed away after an alleged attack by another resident. The lawsuit accuses the Three Rivers Healthcare Center, part of the Communicare Family of Companies, of failing to provide adequate care and response following the incident.
Niederhelman, who had a history of Alzheimer’s dementia and other health conditions, was placed in the nursing home’s secured unit due to her vulnerabilities. The lawsuit details the events of January 26, 2023, when Niederhelman was reportedly attacked by another resident, resulting in her sustaining serious injuries. Despite the incident being captured on surveillance camera, the family claims that the nursing home did not inform them promptly or provide sufficient medical attention to Niederhelman.
The legal action, led by Michael Hill Trial Law on behalf of Niederhelman’s family, asserts negligence, wrongful death, and violations of resident rights against the nursing home. The family’s attorney, Michael Hill, expressed a commitment to seeking justice for Niederhelman and holding the facility accountable for its alleged mishandling of the situation. The lawsuit points to chronic understaffing and systemic failures in care provision as contributing factors to the tragic outcome.
Following the attack, Niederhelman was eventually taken to the hospital, where it was discovered that she had sustained fractured shoulders. Despite efforts to address her condition, she succumbed to her injuries a few days later. The lawsuit highlights the emotional distress and loss experienced by Niederhelman’s family, emphasizing the need for accountability in ensuring the safety and well-being of nursing home residents.
The case underscores broader concerns about the quality of care and oversight in nursing homes, particularly regarding the protection of vulnerable residents. The legal proceedings seek not only justice for Niederhelman’s family but also improvements in regulations and practices within the long-term care industry to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The outcome of this lawsuit may have far-reaching implications for how nursing homes are held accountable for the well-being of their residents.