Nursing home neglect can sometimes be difficult to detect, especially if the signs are subtle. We normally look at the physical signs, such as our loved one resident’s unexplained injuries, weight loss or poor personal hygiene, to confirm our suspicions.
However, there are certain indicators beyond the physical that may suggest a resident is not receiving proper care.
Behavioral indicators
If you notice your loved one to experience sudden behavioral changes, such as being less engaged in social interactions or being unusually quiet or uncommunicative, especially in the presence of staff members, it may be a sign of neglect. Similarly, you should look out for signs of anxiety, depression or other emotional distress.
Environmental indicators
Unsanitary living conditions, such as dirty linens, bathrooms and common areas can be indicators of the nursing home and their staff’s inadequate care of their residents, leading to neglect. More so, unsafe living conditions, like poor lighting, slippery floors or improperly maintained equipment put your loved one at risk of danger due to the facility’s lack of maintenance.
Administrative indicators
Sometimes, you can find signs of nursing home neglect by looking into the organization, its staff and overall operations. For instance, when staff members are unwilling or unable to answer questions about your loved one’s care, it may be a prompt for you to investigate further on the possibility of neglect. You should also be wary about high staff turnover or insufficient staff to resident ratio since these may lead to insufficient care and neglect.
Nursing home neglect extends beyond physical signs. Behavioral changes, environmental hazards and healthcare oversights are also critical indicators that warrant immediate attention to ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being.