Common Signs of Nursing Home Neglect and What to Do

We entrust nursing homes with one of our most precious responsibilities: the well‑being of aging family members who often need care beyond what we can provide at home. Unfortunately, barriers like understaffing, inadequate training, and burnout can lead to neglect—often unintentional, but harmful nonetheless.

Neglect occurs when a resident’s basic needs—such as hygiene, nutrition, medical attention, or mobility assistance—are not met. This can degrade quality of life, erode dignity, and sometimes even threaten lives. What’s more, neglect often goes unnoticed until it’s too late; one study found that only about 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse or neglect are ever reported.

For adult children, spouses, or other loved ones, knowing the signs and knowing how to respond swiftly can be lifesaving. In this blog, our top-rated Chicago nursing home abuse lawyers explains the signs of neglect and abuse you should look out for and what you can do if you suspect nursing home neglect.

1. Physical Red Flags: Bedsores, Dehydration, and Malnutrition

One of the most serious indicators of neglect is pressure ulcers (bedsores). These open wounds typically form when a resident—often immobile—is left in one position too long without repositioning. Neglect in this context isn’t just careless; it’s dangerous. Left untreated, bedsores can lead to infections, sepsis, and even death .

Equally alarming are signs of malnutrition or dehydration: unexplained weight loss, sunken eyes, dry mouth, or discolored urine. These indicate a failure to provide regular meals and water, or neglect in assisting residents with eating and drinking.

2. Poor Hygiene & Unsanitary Conditions

Cleanliness reflects dignity in nursing homes. If residents are found with dirty clothes, unwashed hair, fingernails crusted or untrimmed—these aren’t mere lapses. They signal a breakdown in fundamental caregiving duties.

Even more severe: unsanitary rooms, foul smells, soiled bedding, and infestations. In extreme neglect cases—sometimes involving maggots or flies—physical health is under direct assault.

3. Medication Errors & Untreated Health Conditions

Medication mismanagement is another sign of systemic neglect. Overdoses, missed doses, or improper use of medication can cause dangerous complications—especially among older adults with chronic conditions. A lack of follow-up on infections, wounds, or other health issues is equally concerning.

4. Unexplained Injuries & Frequent Falls

Bruises, abrasions, fractures, and other injuries—especially those inexplicable or recurrent—are red flags. They may result from falls due to lack of proper supervision or unsafe conditions. Repeated incidents suggest deeper issues.

5. Emotional Neglect: Isolation & Changes in Behavior

Neglect isn’t always physical. Emotional neglect—manifested as social isolation, neglect of emotional needs, or ignoring a resident’s requests—can lead to withdrawal, depression, even cognitive decline.

Some staff surveys reveal that over 80% of care staff have witnessed emotional abuse, with nearly half having engaged in such behavior themselves.

6. Financial Exploitation

Financial abuse is insidious but devastating. It often involves unauthorized withdrawals, coerced power-of-attorney changes, or unexplained billing.

Sadly common, about 60% of reported elder abuse pertains to financial exploitation. Staying alert to unusual patterns—missing funds, signed documents under pressure—is vital.

7. Sexual Abuse or Assault

Often overlooked, sexual abuse is rare but profoundly harmful. Warning signs: sexually transmitted infections, bleeding, torn clothing, behavior changes, or genital distress . Even though reported rates are low—around 1–2%—underreporting is severe.

8. Lack of Mobility Support or Increased Falls

When residents aren’t assisted with walking, transferring, or using the restroom, the risk of falling rises dramatically. Frequent falls may mean caregivers aren’t assisting appropriately or far too busy to offer help.

9. Failure to Respond to Call Bells or Requests

Repeatedly ignored call bells, requests for help (for pain relief, restroom assistance, repositioning), or lack of staff response are a serious concern. Neglect of call bells took many victims from simple discomfort to profound medical crises.

10. Signs of Restraint Misuse

Unexplained bruises or marks on wrists and ankles could suggest misuse of physical restraints, which are only for rare medical exceptions. Their misuse is both neglectful and likely illegal.

What You Can Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect

If you suspect your loved one is being neglected, here’s a clear roadmap to help ensure their safety and dignity.

1. Document Observations Immediately

• Keep detailed notes of what you see—dates, times, and descriptions.
• Take photos of injuries, bedsores, unsanitary conditions.
• Record quotes from staff or your loved one regarding neglect.

2. Talk Privately With Your Loved One

Speak to them gently and privately. They may fear reprisals or feel ashamed. Be supportive and attentive as you listen to them.

3. Report Within the Facility

Request and submit a copy of the nursing home’s official complaint process. Submit everything in writing, keep a copy, and follow up.

4. Contact State & Federal Agencies

• File a report with the Illinois Department of Health. They will come out and perform an investigation for free.
• Reach out to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman for free, impartial advocacy.

5. Get Medical Attention

An independent medical evaluation can reveal hidden injuries or neglect-related conditions. Medical records provide powerful documentation.

6. Escalate If Needed

If no action is taken, escalate your complaint to higher-level authorities—or law enforcement if you suspect imminent harm or criminal behavior.

7. Consult an Experienced Chicago Nursing Home Neglect Attorney

Legal guidance is invaluable—even if the goal is simply to get care—and attorneys can:

• Advise on rights under the Nursing Home Reform Act and similar laws
• Pursue claims for negligence, wrongful death, or rights violations .
• Help recover compensation and compel facility changes.

8. Explore Alternative Care Options

Sometimes the safest move is a transfer to a higher-quality facility or returning home with in-home care support .

Why Immediate Action Is Critical

Neglect escalates quickly. Untreated bedsores can turn deadly, poor hygiene can lead to severe infections, and medication mismanagement can prompt hospitalization—or worse. Advocacy isn’t just legal—it can literally save lives.

Contact the Compassionate Chicago Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing neglect in a nursing home, don’t wait for the situation to worsen. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating it is to witness the mistreatment of a vulnerable family member. Our experienced team of Chicago elder neglect attorneys is here to help you investigate, protect your loved one’s rights, and pursue justice. We have successfully handled claims against negligent long-term care facilities throughout the state. Call us today at (630) 527-4177 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. Your loved one deserves better—and we’re ready to help.