If an elderly loved one resides in a nursing home, the last thing you want to hear is that they’re being neglected or abused. A parent or relative may be reluctant or even afraid to tell you what’s been happening to them. Keep your eyes open for signs of nursing home neglect to ensure the safety of your loved one.

How to Tell if Nursing Home Neglect is Occurring

Physical Injuries

Pay attention to bruises, scratches and any other physical injuries. They could be the result of a nursing home resident attempting to bathe, walk or get out of bed on their own. Staffers are required to assist those with physical limitations. Ask the facility manager to see documentation about the nature and cause of the injury. If possible, take pictures of the injuries too.

Malnutrition

Another common sign of nursing home neglect is hunger. Residents who aren’t being fed on a regular basis may be prone to malnutrition. Lack of food can trigger other medical issues, particularly in older people. Look for signs of lethargy and dehydration in loved ones. Request daily meal schedules, which detail how often residents are fed.

Bad Hygiene

From brushing teeth to bathing, nursing home residents should expect daily and proper hygiene care. If you’ve noticed body odor, overgrown nails, or poor dental care, all of these could be signs of serious nursing home neglect. The staff at these facilities are supposed to have training and experience with the physical care of elderly people and those with physical limitations.

Unkempt Living Quarters

Soiled bed sheets, dirty floors, and bathrooms are red flags of neglect. Be on the lookout for unsanitary living conditions. An unkempt environment is a breeding ground for infections and other health problems. Rooms should be cleaned and sanitized each day.

You should always expect your loved ones to receive proper care while living in a nursing home. If your instincts and visual inspections show otherwise, it’s time to take action. Reed Law Offices in Omaha, NE, specializes in nursing home neglect cases. Owner and founder Shayla Reed understands the severity of not caring for elderly parents and relatives. That’s why she is 100% committed to going after facilities that are not following state rules and regulations. Should you ever need legal representation, call the elder abuse attorney at (402) 933-0588 who will fight on your behalf.  Visit the website for information on the law firm’s full suite of services.