What Signs of Nursing Home Neglect Should Visitors Watch For?

Nursing home residents don’t make the decision to move into a facility without giving it considerable thought. They likely need care that they can’t receive at home, so they count on the staff members at the long-term care facility to take care of them. 

While many residents receive outstanding care, there are incidents when residents may not get the care they need. This can sometimes be due to neglect or abuse at the hands of the staff members. 

Anyone who’s visiting someone in a nursing home should pay close attention for signs of abuse and neglect. These signs may not be dramatic or sudden, but it’s critical to recognize when something might be amiss. 

Physical and environmental signs

One of the most common indicators of neglect is a decline in personal hygiene. People who are in nursing homes often need help with basic care. Things like soiled clothing, persistent body odor or unwashed hair may suggest that routine care is missed.

Pressure ulcers are another red flag that abuse or neglect might be occurring. Frequent bruises, untreated infections and repeated falls are signs that residents aren’t being monitored carefully.

It’s also possible that the facility could offer clues about neglect or abuse. Dirty common areas and strong odors are all signs that the facility isn’t being cared for properly. Missing safety features, long response times to call buttons and broken equipment are signs that standards may not be upheld.

Behavioral changes

Changes in the resident’s behavior are also important signs. Residents who are being neglected or abused may be withdrawn, have anxiety, suffer from depression or appear fearful. Those signs may be more pronounced when staff members are near, which is a sign that the staff member warned the resident not to speak out about the neglect or abuse. 

Nursing home neglect and abuse are serious situations. In some cases, they may lead to legal action. Working with someone who can assist with this type of case is beneficial because they can often be complex.