Advocate for Your Elders: How to Spot Nursing Home Neglect

As your loved ones age, it may become necessary to consider nursing home care. While many great facilities are nationwide, not all nursing homes are created equal. Unfortunately, nursing home neglect is a serious concern and knowing how to spot it is important.

By advocating for your elders and knowing what signs to look for, you can help keep them safe and ensure they receive the care they deserve.

What Is Nursing Home Neglect?

Nursing home neglect is a type of elder abuse that occurs when a caregiver fails to meet a resident’s basic needs. Neglect can take many forms, from failing to provide adequate food and water to ignoring medical needs, not providing proper hygiene, and failing to prevent

accidents or falls.

Neglect can also be emotional, such as ignoring or isolating a resident, failing to provide social activities or companionship, or withholding necessary medications.

Why Does Nursing Home Neglect Occur?

Nursing home neglect can occur for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it may be due to understaffing or poorly trained staff. In other cases, it may be due to financial or resource constraints. Neglect can also occur due to intentional abuse or neglect by staff members who are overworked, underpaid, or don’t care about their residents’ well-being.

How to Spot Nursing Home Neglect

There are several signs to look for when spotting nursing home neglect. These signs can be physical, emotional, or behavioral.

Physical Signs

• Dehydration or malnutrition
• Untreated bedsores or other wounds
• Poor hygiene or dirty living conditions
• Unexplained bruises or injuries
• Unexplained weight loss

Emotional Signs

• Depression or anxiety
• Withdrawal or isolation
• Unexplained changes in behavior or mood
• Lack of interest in activities or hobbies
• Fear or discomfort around staff members

Behavioral Signs

• Refusal to eat or drink
• Refusal to take medications
• Incontinence or other hygiene issues
• Wandering or attempting to leave the facility
• Agitation, anger, or aggression

What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect

If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected in a nursing home, there are several steps you can take to address the situation.

1. Talk to Your Loved One

If your loved one can communicate, ask them about their experience in the nursing home. Listen carefully to their concerns and take them seriously.

2. Document Any Signs of Neglect

Keep a record of any physical, emotional, or behavioral signs of neglect that you observe. Take photos of any injuries or living conditions that appear unsafe or unsanitary.

3. Report Your Concerns to the Nursing Home Administrator

If you suspect neglect, report your concerns to the nursing home administrator or director of nursing. Be specific about your concerns and provide any documentation or evidence you have collected.

4. File a Complaint with the State

If you are unsatisfied with the nursing home’s response, you can file a complaint with the state agency regulating nursing homes. In many states, this is the Department of Health or the Department of Aging.

5. Consider Legal Action

If your loved one has been seriously injured or harmed due to neglect, you may want to consult an attorney specializing in nursing home neglect cases.

Conclusion

Nursing home neglect is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for your loved ones. By advocating for your elders and knowing how to spot neglect, you can help keep them safe and ensure they receive the care they need and deserve. If you suspect neglect, don’t hesitate to take action as your loved one’s well-being may depend on it.

Need reliable assistance in handling a nursing home abuse lawsuit? Murray, Stone & Wilson is the one to trust. If you or your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, our legal team can fight to recover the damages you need to provide your loved one proper care and peace of mind. Contact us today to talk to our attorney.