Signs of Nursing Home Neglect

Nursing home neglect is an unfortunate reality for many elderly people in South Carolina. When a vulnerable nursing home patient is denied appropriate care and medical treatment, they could suffer severe consequences to their physical and emotional wellbeing.

What Is Nursing Home Neglect?

Nursing home neglect is a form of passive nursing home abuse where a patient’s basic needs aren’t provided. Since most nursing home patients are very dependent on their caregivers, they require help with things like:

• Personal hygiene

• Food and water

• Getting dressed

• Mobility and exercise

• Room cleaning

• Medical care

In addition to all of the basic hygiene, diet and medical needs, nursing home patients also need emotional support for their mental health. A nursing home patient who is ignored and never talked to is being emotionally neglected.

What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect?

When nursing home neglect is allowed to go on for a long time, patients may suffer from problems like bedsores and dehydration. Patients may also have accidents from falling when they aren’t being monitored. Neglect can lead to complications from missed medication dosages or untreated medical conditions. Here are some common warning signs of neglect:

• Bedsores

• Unexplained bruises or scars

• Changes in behavior

• Declining health

• Sudden weight loss

How Common Is Nursing Home Neglect?

Nursing home neglect is a rampant problem in the US. In 2014, over 14,000 nursing home complaints were filed over neglect and abuse. It is estimated that 54% of nursing homes in the US have problems with neglect and abuse. If you have a loved one that has suffered from poor care at a nursing home, you may be able to file a personal injury complaint on their behalf.