Signs of Neglect and Abuse in Nursing Homes

Award-Winning Nursing Home Injury Lawyers For Elderly Residents in Naperville, St. Charles, and Throughout Illinois

Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious concerns affecting some of the most vulnerable individuals in society. Families place their trust in nursing homes to provide quality care to their loved ones, but unfortunately, some facilities fail to meet these expectations. At John J. Malm & Associates, our acclaimed elder abuse attorneys know that identifying signs of neglect and abuse is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of elderly residents. In this guide, we explore the warning signs of nursing home abuse and neglect and what families of nursing home residents should be on the lookout for.  

What is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?

Nursing home abuse refers to intentional harm inflicted on elderly residents, while neglect occurs when caregivers fail to meet a resident’s basic needs. The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) categorizes nursing home abuse into several types:

• Physical Abuse: The use of force by either nursing home staff or another nursing home resident that results in injury, pain, or impairment.
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Verbal or nonverbal actions that cause distress, fear, or mental anguish to a nursing home resident.
• Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact or interaction.
• Financial Exploitation: Unauthorized or improper use of a resident’s financial resources.
• Neglect: Failure to provide necessary care, leading to harm or distress.

Common Signs of Neglect in Nursing Homes

Nursing home neglect can be intentional or unintentional but is always harmful to residents. Common indicators of nursing home neglect include:

1. Poor Personal Hygiene

Nursing home staff are responsible for assisting residents with daily hygiene tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and oral care. Signs of neglect include:

• Unwashed hair and body
• Overgrown nails
• Unbrushed teeth and bad breath
• Dirty clothing or unchanged adult diapers

2. Unsanitary Living Conditions

A clean and sanitary environment is essential for elderly residents, especially those with compromised immune systems. Signs of neglectful conditions include:

• Unclean bedding
• Foul odors
• Presence of pests or rodents
• Dirty communal areas

3. Malnutrition and Dehydration

Proper nutrition and hydration are vital for elderly individuals. Signs of malnutrition or dehydration include:

• Sudden weight loss
• Dry skin and lips
• Sunken eyes
• Weakness and fatigue
• Complaints of hunger or thirst

4. Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers)

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, develop when residents remain in one position for too long without being repositioned. These sores often indicate severe neglect and can lead to infections if untreated. Common locations include the back, hips, elbows, and heels.

5. Frequent Infections and Illnesses

Neglect can weaken a resident’s immune system, making them more prone to infections. Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections, and skin conditions may indicate poor hygiene and inadequate medical care.

6. Unexplained Injuries

Residents should not frequently suffer from bruises, fractures, or lacerations. Unexplained injuries may suggest improper supervision, falls, or physical abuse.

7. Wandering and Elopement

Residents with dementia or cognitive impairments are particularly vulnerable to wandering away or escaping from the facility. This often results from inadequate supervision and lack of secure facilities.

Common Signs of Abuse in Nursing Homes

While neglect often stems from inadequate staffing or training, abuse is an intentional act that causes harm to a nursing home resident. Signs of elder abuse include:

1. Bruises, Burns, or Broken Bones

Unusual or frequent injuries may indicate physical abuse. Staff members should be able to provide reasonable explanations for any injuries.

2. Emotional Withdrawal or Fear

Victims of emotional or psychological abuse may exhibit changes in behavior, including:

• Sudden withdrawal from social interactions
• Depression or anxiety
• Fearfulness around specific staff members
• Uncharacteristic aggression

3. Sexual Abuse Indicators

Sexual abuse in nursing homes is a horrifying reality. Signs include:

• Bruising around the genitals
• Torn undergarments
• Unexplained STDs
• Emotional distress when being touched

4. Financial Irregularities

Financial abuse can be harder to detect but is equally damaging. Warning signs include:

• Sudden changes in bank accounts
• Unauthorized transactions
• Missing personal belongings
• Changes in wills or power of attorney

Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Statistics

Statistics reveal the alarming prevalence of nursing home abuse and neglect:

• A 2020 study from the World Health Organization (WHO) found that 1 in 6 adults aged 60 and older experienced some form of abuse in community and institutional settings, like nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
• According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), approximately 5 million elderly individuals experience abuse each year in the U.S.
• A 2018 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that 25% of serious nursing home abuse cases were not reported to law enforcement.
• The Office of Inspector General (OIG) reported in 2019 that nearly one-third of Medicare beneficiaries in skilled nursing facilities suffered harm within 35 days of admission.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

If you suspect a loved one is suffering from nursing home neglect or abuse, take the following steps:

1. Document the Evidence

• Take photos of injuries, poor living conditions, and hygiene issues.
• Keep a record of any unusual behavior or complaints from the resident.

2. Report the Abuse

• Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) at 1-800-252-4343 and file a complaint over the phone or online.
• If immediate harm is suspected, call 911.

3. Contact a Nursing Home Injury Attorney

Nursing home abuse and neglect cases require legal expertise. An experienced Illinois elder abuse and neglect attorney can help you:

• File a lawsuit against the negligent facility.
• Seek compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering.
• Hold responsible parties accountable.

Preventing Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse

Families can take proactive steps to protect their loved ones in a nursing home by:

• Researching Facilities: Check online reviews, inspection reports, and staff-to-resident ratios before selecting a nursing home.
• Making Frequent Visits: Unannounced visits help assess the quality of care in real-time.
• Encouraging Communication: Speak openly with loved ones about their experiences and any concerns they may have.
• Staying Involved: Participate in care planning meetings and stay in touch with facility staff.

Contact the Top-Rated Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

Nursing home neglect and abuse are devastating realities that affect thousands of elderly individuals each year. Recognizing the warning signs and taking immediate action can save lives and improve the quality of care for nursing home residents. If you suspect a loved one is experiencing abuse or neglect, seek legal guidance to protect their rights and well-being.

If you or a loved one has been affected by nursing home neglect or abuse, contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. We are committed to holding negligent facilities accountable and ensuring justice for victims and their families. Let us help you today.