The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home facility is never an easy one. There’s a lot to consider, from comfort and distance to the type of care and amenities. However, one thing we should never have to consider is abuse and negligence.

Physical Negligence 

One of the most common forms of nursing home negligence comes in the form of physical neglect. This occurs when residents are not provided with things like proper nutrition or hydration, assistance with bathroom tasks, and proper safety precautions. Signs of this type of neglect include weight loss, lethargy, bruises, and unusual confusion. 

Social and Emotional Negligence 

Emotional negligence can be difficult to pinpoint. However, if the facility does not encourage visitation and provide ample opportunities for socialization, this could be a signal of emotional neglect. Look for anxiety, anger, depression, and other behavioral changes in your loved one. It’s also vital that their complaints and concerns not be ignored.

Medical Negligence

Failing to render medical assistance and support is a major form of nursing home neglect. Refusal to call a doctor when needed, ignoring injuries, and improper medication administration are all signs of medical neglect. Your loved one should not have untreated wounds or illnesses that linger. If they are constantly complaining of pain with no relief, this could be neglect.

Hygiene Negligence 

If your loved one often appears unkempt and dirty, this is a sure sign of hygiene neglect. Other issues like dirty clothing, bedsheets, and lack of hygiene products are also signs of neglect. An attorney for nursing home neglect can help in this situation. 

Failure to Respond

Often one of the main causes of neglect is that nursing facilities are short-staffed. While this is not an excuse, it does explain why residents have long wait times for assistance, phones don’t get answered, and housekeeping services aren’t up to par. If your loved one states that they have long wait times for help, this is a form of negligence. 

Facility Negligence 

When visiting, if you notice that the facility is rundown, unsanitary, or messy, these are signs of facility neglect that could lead to health and safety issues for your loved one. Be aware of unattended spills, unsanitary bathrooms, insects, and broken equipment.

Contact Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates Today!

 If you believe you or a loved one has been the victim of a nursing care facility and are in need of an attorney for nursing home neglect, the team at Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates is here to help you navigate the litigation process. 

Please contact us with any questions or to make an appointment.