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Deciding to put a loved one into a nursing home can be difficult, but knowing they will be in the hands of a trained and compassionate staff helps make the transition easier. Unfortunately, many facilities fall short of expectations, failing to provide elderly residents with the high-quality care they need and deserve. In these cases, neglect is often to blame. According to the attorneys at Egan & Richgels, S.C. in La Crosse, WI, nursing home negligence is becoming increasingly common, putting senior citizens at risk of serious physical and psychological trauma.

5 Clues Nursing Home Negligence Might Be Taking Place 

1. Poor Hygiene 

One of the main duties of the nursing home staff is to assist residents with their basic personal hygiene. Typically, this includes helping with bathing, dressing, and grooming. If you notice your loved one looking unkempt in any manner, this might be a clue they aren’t receiving the attention they need. 

2. Malnutrition or Dehydration 

Malnutrition and dehydration can lead to major health complications, especially for seniors. Nursing home staff is responsible for ensuring residents are eating and drinking enough to keep these problems at bay. Evidence of malnourishment and dehydration could mean the facility isn’t providing enough food and water.

3. Unexplained Injuries 

nursing home negligenceAlthough older people are known for getting bruises and cuts fairly easily, there should always be an explanation for their appearance. If there are wounds that no one seems willing to talk about, this could be an indication that your loved one is being left inappropriately unattended. 

4. Unsafe or Unsanitary Living Conditions

Nursing homes should meet a certain standard when it comes to safety and cleanliness. Slippery floors, rundown furniture, poor lighting, soiled sheets, and dirty common areas are all examples of unsafe and unsanitary living conditions, as well as neglectful behavior. 

5. Changes in Behavior

Neglect can also cause emotional issues to manifest, so it’s crucial to watch out for sudden behavioral changes in addition to physical signals. If your loved one becomes withdrawn, depressed, fearful of staff members, or antisocial, these are all hints that they might be experiencing negligence. 

Being aware of the signs associated with nursing home negligence can help protect the elderly from having to endure further abuse. If you suspect any form of neglect is taking place at a facility where your loved one resides, it’s imperative to consult with an attorney from Egan & Richgels, S.C. right away. They will go over your legal options and develop a strong case on your behalf to help your family receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact them at (608) 784-0087 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their services. 

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