Judge Allows Class Action Lawsuit Against Alden Nursing Homes to Proceed
A Cook County judge has ruled that a class action lawsuit against Alden Group, Ltd., and Alden Management Services, Inc. can proceed to trial. The lawsuit alleges that the operator of several nursing homes in the Chicago area systematically understaffed its facilities to increase profits, thereby creating dangerous and unsanitary living conditions for residents. Plaintiffs claim staffing levels were often at only 50 percent of legal requirements, concealed through false reports and ghost workers. Specific incidents cited include residents falling due to lack of supervision and ingesting poisonous chemicals. The case represents Medicaid recipients at six Alden facilities, including Alden Lakeland and Alden Heather Health Care Center. While only ten residents have formally joined anonymously, the class action could potentially involve thousands of individuals. The ruling permits discovery processes, including depositions of owners and staff, which may last one to two years before trial. Legal representatives aim to force operational changes to prevent future harm. Alden Chairman Floyd Schlossberg maintained the company's commitment to quality care, though the company did not immediately comment on the specific ruling. This decision significantly advantages plaintiffs and may encourage settlement negotiations.
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Judge Allows Class Action Lawsuit Against Alden Nursing Homes to Proceed
A Cook County judge has ruled that a class action lawsuit against Alden Group, Ltd., and Alden Management Services, Inc. can proceed to trial. The lawsuit alleges that the operator of several nursing homes in the Chicago area systematically understaffed its facilities to increase profits, thereby creating dangerous and unsanitary living conditions for residents. Plaintiffs claim staffing levels were often at only 50 percent of legal requirements, concealed through false reports and ghost workers. Specific incidents cited include residents falling due to lack of supervision and ingesting poisonous chemicals. The case represents Medicaid recipients at six Alden facilities, including Alden Lakeland and Alden Heather Health Care Center. While only ten residents have formally joined anonymously, the class action could potentially involve thousands of individuals. The ruling permits discovery processes, including depositions of owners and staff, which may last one to two years before trial. Legal representatives aim to force operational changes to prevent future harm. Alden Chairman Floyd Schlossberg maintained the company's commitment to quality care, though the company did not immediately comment on the specific ruling. This decision significantly advantages plaintiffs and may encourage settlement negotiations.
chicagotribune