According to the National Council on Aging, up to 5 million older Americans are abused each year. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to quantify how common nursing home neglect is because it often goes unreported. Some residents and their loved ones may not know the warning signs to look for. Other times, a nursing home facility may blame consequences of nursing home neglect on an unrelated issue.

When you suspect your loved one has been a victim of nursing home neglect, it’s important to investigate and collect evidence quickly. This helps in the pursuit of legal action which can prevent other residents from becoming victims as well.

The answer to who can be held legally responsible for nursing home neglect depends on a variety of factors in each unique situation. Sometimes, the hiring team doesn’t adequately research and vet new hires. Sometimes, it’s the actions of a single staff member that creates ripple effects throughout an entire nursing home.

The parent company of multiple nursing homes can also be held legally responsible for nursing home neglect when certain negligent practices are implemented or care is not monitored throughout an organization.

Consult with a nursing home neglect lawyer to learn about who may be held legally responsible in your nursing home neglect case.

Nursing home neglect warning signs are diverse and may include: loss of mobility, poor resident hygiene, psychological issues, inadequate nutrition, bedsores, unexplained weight loss, slips and falls, dangerous drug reactions, emotional withdrawal, unexplained injuries, and unsanitary living conditions.

It’s crucial for nursing home residents and their loved ones to know which warning signs to look for and to notice them during frequent visits and through communication with nursing home residents and staff. Taking photos of signs of neglect is immensely helpful as they can be used as evidence for nursing home neglect lawsuits.