July 3, 2025 | Nursing Home Negligence

As our population ages and people live longer, the demand for nursing homes and long-term care facilities continues to grow. However, with this rise in care needs, there has also been an unfortunate increase in nursing home negligence and abuse. These incidents can have devastating effects on vulnerable elderly residents who rely on these facilities for their health, safety, and dignity.

Here we’ll discuss common examples of abuse and neglect, what family members should look for, the steps they can take if they suspect mistreatment, and why consulting a personal injury attorney can be essential.

What Is Nursing Home Negligence and Abuse?

Nursing home negligence refers to the failure of care facilities to provide an adequate standard of care to their residents, resulting in harm or risk of harm. Abuse can include physical, emotional, or financial mistreatment of elderly residents. Unfortunately, these issues are not rare. Many nursing homes struggle with understaffing, inadequate training, and poor oversight, which can lead to neglectful conditions.

Common Examples of Nursing Home Negligence

• Decubitus Ulcers (Bedsores): These painful sores develop when a resident is left in one position for too long without proper movement or repositioning. They are a clear indicator of neglect because they can be prevented with adequate care.
• Falls and Fractures: Due to inadequate supervision or unsafe environments, residents often suffer falls. These incidents can lead to broken bones or severe injuries, especially in elderly individuals who are more fragile.
• Physical Abuse: Some residents experience direct abuse, which can result in bruises, fractures, head injuries, or even death. Such cases are extreme but sadly present in certain facilities.
• Emotional and Psychological Neglect: Aside from physical harm, many residents suffer from isolation, lack of attention, or verbal abuse. These conditions can deteriorate a resident’s mental and emotional health.
• Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, negligence or abuse leads to the death of a resident, often under circumstances that could have been prevented with proper care.

When should you watch for Nursing Home Negligence?

Family members and friends are often the first line of defense in detecting potential nursing home abuse or neglect. Because residents might be unable or unwilling to report mistreatment, it is crucial for families to be vigilant and proactive. Here are some key signs that may indicate a problem:

• Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, cuts, fractures, or bedsores that have no clear explanation should raise immediate concern.
• Sudden Changes in Behavior: Withdrawal, depression, anxiety, or fearfulness, especially around caregivers or staff, can be an indicator of abuse.
• Poor Hygiene: Residents who are consistently dirty, unbathed, or wearing soiled clothing may not be receiving proper care.
• Malnutrition or Dehydration: Weight loss, dry skin, or signs of dehydration suggest neglect in feeding or hydration.
• Unsafe Environment: Unsafe living conditions, such as cluttered rooms, broken equipment, or lack of supervision, can lead to accidents and injuries.
• Lack of Communication: If staff avoids family questions or refuses to provide information about care, this could be a red flag.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Abuse or Neglect

If you believe your loved one is being neglected or abused in a nursing home, immediate action is necessary to protect their health and safety.  Listed below are a list of actions you may consider.

Visit the Facility: Go to the nursing home and observe the conditions firsthand. Speak directly with the administrator, caregivers, and, if possible, other residents. Ask questions about your loved one’s care and any concerns you have.

1. Document Everything: Take detailed notes, photos of injuries, and keep records of any conversations or incidents. This documentation can be vital if legal action becomes necessary.
2. Contact State Regulatory Agencies: Each state has government bodies responsible for licensing and supervising nursing homes. Families can file complaints and request investigations through these agencies.
3. Consider Moving Your Loved One: If abuse or neglect is evident, it is often best to transfer your relative to a different facility as soon as possible to prevent further harm.
4. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: For serious injuries or wrongful death cases, legal counsel can advise on the best course of action to seek justice and compensation.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in Nursing Home Abuse Cases

Why should families consider consulting a personal injury attorney if they suspect nursing home negligence? The primary goal is to stop the abuse and hold the responsible parties accountable. While the damage to the individual may have already occurred, legal action can prevent future harm to other residents.

Here are some key reasons why legal representation is important:

• Stopping the Abuse: An attorney can work to ensure that the negligent facility faces consequences, which can lead to improved care standards or even closure if warranted.
• Legal Recourse for Injuries: When negligence or gross misconduct causes harm, families may have grounds to file claims or lawsuits seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Wrongful Death Claims: In cases where abuse leads to the death of a resident, families can pursue wrongful death claims to obtain justice and financial restitution.
• Expert Guidance: Navigating the complexities of nursing home abuse cases requires specialized knowledge. Attorneys experienced in this field understand the laws, regulations, and tactics used by facilities and insurance companies.

When Should You Move Your Loved One to Another Facility?

Deciding whether to move a loved one from a nursing home after suspected abuse can be difficult, but if there is any significant neglect or abuse, the safest option is to relocate the individual promptly. Protecting the resident from further harm is paramount.  However, this decision may depend on the severity and nature of the situation. Families should weigh the risks and consult professionals to ensure the new facility can provide adequate care and support.

Preventing Nursing Home Negligence: What Families Can Do

While nursing home negligence is a serious issue, families can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of abuse and ensure their loved ones receive the care they deserve. Here are some practical tips:

• Research Facilities Thoroughly: Before choosing a nursing home, investigate its reputation, licensing status, inspection reports, and reviews from other families.
• Visit Regularly: Frequent visits allow you to monitor your loved one’s condition and the facility’s environment.
• Maintain Open Communication: Build relationships with staff and administrators. Stay informed about your relative’s care plan, medications, and any changes.
• Empower Your Loved One: Encourage residents to speak up about their experiences and concerns. Provide them with ways to report issues confidentially.
• Know the Signs of Neglect and Abuse: Awareness is key to early detection and intervention.
• Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a file of medical records, incident reports, and correspondence with the facility.

Nursing home negligence is a distressing reality faced by many families, but awareness and action can make a significant difference. Understanding the signs of abuse, knowing when and how to intervene, and seeking expert legal support are essential steps in safeguarding the health and dignity of elderly residents.

How to get Help and Support

If you have questions about nursing home negligence or need legal assistance, please feel free to contact High & Younes at 402-933-3345.

Nursing Home Negligence