10 Signs a Senior May Be Experiencing Neglect in a Nursing Home and How to Take Action
When your senior loved one requires specialized care that a nursing home can provide, you should be able to trust that they will receive the attention and support they deserve. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) estimates that around 90% of seniors living in a community or institutional setting have experienced some form of elder abuse in the past year. Of this abuse, non-physical types are the most prevalent cases; neglect being among the most common to occur in these facilities.
Neglect compromises the health and well-being of seniors and can result in malnutrition, psychological distress, depression, poor physical health, and increased disabilities (to name just a few). As such, it is important to continue advocating for your senior loved ones.
First and foremost, trust your instincts. If you have a gut feeling that something isn’t right, don’t ignore it. Your concerns are valid and should be addressed. In addition, here are 10 signs of neglect to look out for and what you can do next to take action.
1. Poor Personal Hygiene
A noticeable decline in personal hygiene can indicate that care needs are not being properly met. This can include things like unclean clothing, unwashed hair, or untreated wounds.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss
Keep an eye out for changes in your senior loved one’s physical health, specifically pertaining to their dietary intake. Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of malnutrition or dehydration
3. Medication Mismanagement
If your senior loved one consistently misses medication doses or experiences adverse effects from incorrect administration, this can be a sign that someone’s not doing their job. Ensure that medications are being administered as prescribed.
4. Isolation
Social engagement should be at the forefront of most successful nursing homes, right next to medical needs. If your loved one appears withdrawn, depressed, or seems isolated, it could be a sign that they’re not getting the social interaction they need.
5. Unsanitary or Hazardous Living Conditions
Look out for neglected living spaces, unattended spills, lack of proper maintenance, or unsanitary bathrooms. Living in unclean or hazardous environments can be a sign of neglect.
6. Untreated Conditions
If you’re noticing things like untreated infections, wounds that won’t heal, or conditions that are inexplicably worsening, it may be because health issues are not being properly addressed.
7. Staff Shortages
Staff shortages happen – it’s an unfortunate sign of the times. But, if you consistently notice there aren’t enough staff around to keep your senior loved one safe and to provide quality care, then that can most definitely lead to neglect. It may not be completely intentional. But, nevertheless, it’s neglect.
8. Unexplained Injuries
If you’re seeing suspicious marks, cuts, bruises, or bedsores that staff cannot explain, it may be because of neglect or abuse. If unexplained injuries are of concern to you, be sure to also ask your senior loved one if they’re able to share how they happened.
9. Improper Mobility Support
Neglected seniors may not receive the support they require to perform basic tasks like sitting and standing, or walking down the hall. Does your senior loved one seem to need mobility support but is denied assistance or the use of canes, wheelchairs, or rollators?
10. Withdrawl
Signs of emotional distress, such as increased anxiety, depression, or withdrawal, can indicate neglect. Pay attention to changes in their behavior and emotional well-being. If they’re usually social, do they still seem to crave social interaction in the way they always have?
How to Take Action if You Suspect Neglect in a Nursing Home
If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to take action and advocate for your senior loved one’s health, safety, and well-being. Here are some of the most important steps to take:
Documentation
Keep a detailed record of any signs, incidents, or red flags. Include dates, times, and clear descriptions of what you’ve observed. If you’ve addressed any of your documented concerns with nursing home staff, then be sure to include that information in your notes as well.
Keeping a record of what’s going on with your loved one, nursing home staff, and the facility will help if you end up needing to report anything. It can also help when addressing concerns with staff members.
Communicate with Nursing Home Staff
You are the best advocate for your family members. Express your concerns to staff members or nursing home administration. Ask for explanations or request a formal investigation when appropriate. Although it’s best to stay calm, be assertive. Ask that any responses or resolutions also be documented in writing to keep for your record. Moving forward, it’s important to keep the lines of communication open and maintain regular contact with the nursing home.
Contact an Ombudsman
An ombudsman’s role is to listen to your concerns, investigate complaints, and work toward resolving issues. They are there to promote quality care and ensure that seniors’ rights are upheld. You can get in contact with an ombudsman in your area through the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center.
Contact Local Authorities
If the nursing home fails to address your concerns or you suspect immediate danger, contact local adult protective services or law enforcement to report the neglect (or other forms of abuse).
Seek Out Legal Advice
An elder law attorney can guide you on the appropriate legal steps to protect your senior loved one’s rights. They can also help you seek justice if the situation calls for it.
Looking for More Help with Elder Abuse?
If you need additional help, start with these resources:
- Nursing Home Abuse Center
- Preventing Elder Abuse, CDC
- National Council on Aging, Elder Abuse Facts
- National Adult Protective Services Association
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
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Originally published January 31, 2024
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