Could You Spot the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect?

Making the decision to put a loved one into a supported living or skilled nursing care facility is never easy. Despite your best intentions and no matter how thoroughly you vet the facility you choose, there’s always the nagging worry that your beloved family member could be neglected or abused. If your loved one were to fall victim to nursing home abuse, would you know how to detect it?

What to Watch For

Obvious evidence of abuse includes unexplained bruises and bedsores. However, there are often subtler signs of neglectful nursing facility care that can easily go unnoticed if you don’t know what to look for. When you visit your loved one, watch for clues such as:

• Personality changes, particularly withdrawal
• Halitosis (chronic bad breath)
• Diaper rash
• Drastic weight loss
• Obvious discomfort in the presence of facility workers or a particular worker

Check your loved one’s toothbrush to ensure it’s being used. A persistent urine or feces odor is also cause for concern. Bring any concerns you have to the facility’s management. If your issues are not immediately addressed to your satisfaction, you may want to consider contacting an experienced nursing home neglect lawyer.

Do you suspect neglectful care of your loved one? Call us at 1-800-842-8462 (1-800-Victim2). We’ll get right to work to determine if neglect or abuse may be a factor.