A new lawsuit has been filed against a Florida nursing home, alleging severe neglect and mistreatment of an elderly resident that led to her death. On June 21, 2024, Linda A. Arrick, as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Louise Giammarino, filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County against Avante at Boca Raton, Inc.
The lawsuit details how Louise Giammarino, who was over sixty years old and suffering from age-related infirmities, was a resident at Avante at Boca Raton until her death on November 29, 2023. According to the complaint, during her stay at the facility, Giammarino experienced significant neglect and mistreatment. The plaintiff alleges that the staff failed to develop an adequate care plan and did not properly monitor or supervise Giammarino's care. This negligence reportedly resulted in infections, dehydration, falls, and unexplained injuries.
The complaint further asserts that Avante at Boca Raton violated several provisions under Chapter 400 of Florida Statutes which set standards for operating nursing homes. Specific accusations include failing to provide appropriate healthcare and protective services, mental and physical abuse prevention measures, and compliance with health regulations. "As a direct result of Avante at Boca Raton's acts and omissions," states the complaint, "Louise Giammarino suffered development and deterioration of infections and dehydration along with falls and unexplained injuries."
Linda A. Arrick claims that these failures were not isolated incidents but part of broader systemic issues within the facility. The lawsuit accuses Avante at Boca Raton of inadequate staffing levels, improper training and supervision of staff members, failure to maintain accurate medical records, lack of communication with family members about significant changes in health status, among other allegations.
The plaintiff is seeking compensatory damages for bodily injury, pain and suffering endured by Louise Giammarino before her death. Additionally, they are asking for damages related to loss of dignity; humiliation; mental anguish; inconvenience; loss of capacity to enjoy life; discomfort; aggravation of existing diseases or physical defects; medical expenses incurred due to negligence; as well as funeral expenses.
Attorney William A. Dean from Ford & Dean P.A., representing Linda A. Arrick stated: "This case highlights severe lapses in duty by those entrusted with caring for our most vulnerable population." The Case ID is: 502024CA005837XXXAMB Div: AO.