How can you spot nursing home neglect?

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2022 | Nursing Home Negligence |

Elderly and ill individuals move into nursing homes for several reasons. One reason is that they may not be able to take care of themselves appropriately. 

Nursing home staff are supposed to meet the needs of your parent and the other residents. Yet sometimes they neglect to provide the necessary care, and your parent could suffer as a result.

Signs of neglect to look for

Signs of nursing home neglect might include

  • Not being given medications as prescribed
  • Not receiving health care for current or new health issues/injuries
  • Malnutrition
  • Dehydration
  • Lack of adequate shelter
  • Bedsores, which result from staying in one position for too long 

Neglect by nursing home staff or home caregivers is considered to be elder abuse. If you see any of the above signs, it is time for you to act now. 

What can you do to solve the issue?

Even one indicator that an elderly person is being neglected by nursing home staff is too much. If this is your parent, they may worry that saying something could result in having to move, which could be very difficult for them. However, they need you to speak up for them. 

Administrators responsible for safely operating nursing homes could let an unsatisfactory background check slide. They might decide it is acceptable to cut down on staff or equipment, and as a result, the residents are placed at an increased risk of neglect or physical harm. Learn how to identify signs of neglect so you can protect your parent.