NORTHGLENN, Colo. — A daughter has taken legal action against a local assisted living facility, claiming neglect led to her mother’s death. The lawsuit alleges that staff at Northglenn Heights Assisted Living and Memory Care failed to provide adequate support for residents prone to falling, despite these concerns being addressed in a care plan.
Kathleen Griffin, 77, was admitted to the facility in early 2024 requiring close supervision due to her medical condition. The wrongful death complaint, filed in Adams County, reveals that the facility allegedly neglected to follow a care protocol that stipulated staff check in on Griffin every two hours. The lawsuit details five instances between February and July of 2024 when Griffin experienced falls, with the claim that staff did not respond adequately.
According to the legal complaint, there were instances where Griffin remained on the floor for extended periods after falling. In one particularly alarming case, she reportedly struggled on the ground for seven hours without receiving assistance, ultimately leading to her passing due to complications from the neglect.
Jason Jordan, the family’s attorney, described the situation as “absolutely abhorrent,” emphasizing the disregard shown by the staff toward Griffin’s safety and wellbeing. Video evidence cited in the lawsuit allegedly shows Griffin left unattended for hours following her falls, raising serious questions about the facility’s level of care.
Jordan has also prompted a criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Griffin’s care, asserting that it is crucial to protect elderly residents in similar situations. He contends that failure to act risks further neglect of vulnerable individuals in care facilities.
The Adams County district attorney’s office confirmed they are reviewing Jordan’s request for an investigation. “A criminal investigation is not only warranted but necessary,” Jordan said, underlining the imperative of ensuring safety in such environments.
A representative for Northglenn Heights acknowledged the lawsuit but declined to comment further. The facility’s response, or lack thereof, comes amidst growing concerns regarding oversight in assisted living and memory care communities, particularly about the treatment of elderly residents.
As this case unfolds, it raises significant discussions on the standards of care in facilities designed to protect and aid some of society’s most vulnerable individuals, underscoring the necessity for accountability in elder care.