Residents in nursing homes usually need specialized care in a variety of daily living activities. While most residents receive the care they need, it’s sometimes possible that neglect may occur.
Nursing home neglect in everyday situations isn’t always easy to spot, but it can have a lasting impact on the residents if they’re allowed to continue without being addressed. These often occur through changes in routines, hygiene, nutrition or communication. Anyone who has a loved one in a long-term care facility should pay close attention to signs that something is amiss.
Common signs of long-term care neglect
Many of the common signs of long-term care neglect involve physical health, emotional well-being, medication management, mobility, cleanliness and safety. These may develop slowly or after changes in staffing or medical needs.
Everyday situations are often where signs of neglect can be spotted. Residents may be left in soiled clothing, lose weight, have unexplained bruises or seem withdrawn. Other concerns include poor grooming, dehydration, repeated falls, bedsores and untreated infections. Residents who are being neglected may experience mood changes, such as becoming anxious or fearful. Visitors may recognize that the resident seems fearful of speaking around certain staff members, which may signal intimidation by the staff member.
Tracking patterns is often beneficial, even if neglect isn’t suspected. It might become evident after looking at the notes that something is amiss in the facility. Nursing home staff members must meet the basic care needs of the residents, so that failing to do so is a major red flag.
If a resident suffers harm because of neglect, medical attention is necessary. Legal action may be necessary in these cases, so working with someone familiar with these matters is often beneficial.
