The Cassidy Law Firm Blog

When a loved one moves into a nursing home, families trust that they’ll receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve. Unfortunately, some facilities fail to meet those standards, putting vulnerable residents at risk of abuse or neglect. Recognizing the warning signs early can help protect your loved one’s health and safety and ensure accountability when care falls short.

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Nursing home abuse refers to any intentional act that causes harm or distress to a resident. Neglect, on the other hand, occurs when staff fail to provide necessary care, often due to understaffing, inadequate training, or a disregard for resident needs.

Both forms of mistreatment can take many shapes, and the warning signs are not always obvious. Staying alert and informed is one of the best ways families can help protect their loved ones.

Common Signs of Physical Abuse

Physical abuse can include hitting, pushing, rough handling, or inappropriate restraint use. Watch for sudden or unexplained injuries, especially if staff provide vague or conflicting explanations.

Possible indicators include:

• Bruises, cuts, or welts, especially around wrists or ankles

• Broken bones or sprains without a clear cause

• Frequent trips to the emergency room

• Sudden fear of certain staff members

• Signs of overmedication or sedation

Emotional and Psychological Warning Signs

Abuse isn’t always physical. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging, causing anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.

Watch for these behavioral changes:

• Sudden mood swings or unexplained anger

• Withdrawal from social activities or family visits

• Fearfulness, especially around caregivers

• Changes in sleep patterns or appetite

• Uncharacteristic confusion or agitation

Indicators of Neglect

Neglect often arises from understaffing or a lack of proper supervision. Over time, neglect can seriously harm a resident’s health and dignity.

Common red flags include:

• Poor hygiene or soiled clothing

• Untreated bedsores or infections

• Dehydration or malnutrition

• Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions

• Missed medications or medical appointments

Financial or Sexual Abuse Warning Signs

Elder abuse can also be financial or sexual in nature. These topics may be difficult to discuss, but they are important to recognize.

Financial abuse may appear as:

• Sudden changes to wills, powers of attorney, or bank accounts

• Missing personal belongings or unexplained withdrawals

• Bills going unpaid despite adequate funds

Possible indicators of sexual abuse include:

• Bruising around the genital area

• Torn or bloody undergarments

• Sudden fear of physical contact

Steps to Take if You Suspect Abuse or Neglect

If you believe a loved one is being mistreated in a New Jersey nursing home, it’s essential to act quickly.

1. Document everything. Take photos of injuries, record dates and times, and write down any concerning statements or observations.

2. Report the issue to facility management. Ask for a written response or corrective action plan.

3. File a formal complaint. Contact the New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman or the Department of Health.

4. Seek medical care immediately. Ensure your loved one receives proper treatment for any injuries or health issues.

5. Consult an attorney. A nursing home abuse attorney can help investigate what happened, preserve evidence, and pursue compensation for harm suffered.

Protecting Your Loved One’s Rights

Abuse and neglect in nursing homes are violations of both trust and the law. Families have legal options to hold negligent facilities accountable and to help ensure others do not suffer the same mistreatment.

At The Cassidy Law Firm, LLC, we help New Jersey families protect their loved ones from neglect and abuse in long-term care settings. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights, file a claim, and demand accountability from those responsible.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Loved One

If you suspect your family member is suffering from abuse or neglect in a New Jersey nursing home, don’t wait to act. Your steps today could prevent further harm and bring peace of mind to your family.