Many nursing home injuries go unnoticed because victims are unable to speak up due to medical conditions like dementia or cognitive decline. Families must stay vigilant and look for warning signs that indicate possible neglect or abuse.

Physical Signs of Nursing Home Neglect:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or fractures – Could indicate falls, rough handling, or even physical abuse.
• Frequent infections or worsening medical conditions – May signal poor hygiene, lack of medical attention, or improper wound care.
• Bedsores (pressure ulcers) – A common sign of neglect when staff fails to reposition non-mobile residents.
• Dehydration or malnutrition – If a loved one is losing weight or appears weak, it may be due to inadequate nutrition or lack of proper care.

Emotional and Behavioral Warning Signs:

• Sudden fearfulness or withdrawal – Victims of abuse may become more isolated or anxious around certain staff members.
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior – Depression, anger, or increased confusion can be signs of emotional mistreatment.
• Refusal to discuss care – If a resident avoids talking about their caregivers, it could indicate fear of retaliation for speaking out.

If you notice any of these red flags, don’t ignore them. TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers connects families with Missouri nursing home injury attorneys who can investigate concerns and take legal action if neglect or abuse has occurred.