Spotting the Most Common Signs of Nursing Home Neglect

Nursing home abuse and neglect are unfortunately common issues at senior care facilities across the United States. If a loved one is living in a nursing home, it is important to do your due diligence in investigating the community before helping him or her move there. You should also watch for signs of nursing home neglect on an ongoing basis.

Below are some of the most common signs of nursing home neglect:

• Unsanitary living spaces: Nursing homes must maintain certain standards of cleanliness and safety in their facilities. A failure to do so is a common sign that residents are being neglected. Make sure clothing and bedding is always clean and that kitchens, bathrooms and common areas are kept clean, as well.
• Poor hygiene: Nursing home staff must assist residents with basic personal hygiene. Many residents need help with bathing, brushing their teeth and getting dressed. Residents who are not getting the assistance needed will often be unable to do these tasks themselves, which can result in poor hygiene and health problems.
• Poor nutrition: Malnutrition and dehydration are both telltale signs of nursing home neglect. Staff must ensure that all residents are getting enough water and the proper nutrition in their diets.
• Mysterious injuries: Falls do happen on occasion in nursing homes. Nursing homes are not expected to completely eliminate accidents and injuries, but they must do everything in their power to limit and prevent them. If a loved one has unexplained bruises, broken bones or head injuries, it could mean he or she is not getting enough assistance when walking around the facility.
• Psychological issues: Neglect can take an emotional and psychological toll on nursing home residents. They could become resentful or afraid of caregivers. They can suffer from depression, even closing themselves off from family members. If you notice any such changes in behavior or their emotional state, it is important to address those issues immediately.

For further guidance on preventing or addressing nursing home neglect, meet with a dedicated attorney at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP.