5 Signs of Nursing Home Negligence and What Can be Done About It?

Nursing homes should offer tranquility and happiness, but when elderly care facilities are underfunded or understaffed, it could lead to Corpus Christi nursing home negligence. If you or a loved one has suffered from neglect in a Corpus Christi elderly care facility, you deserve justice. A lawyer can be there for you and your family.

At Carabin Shaw we have decades of experience working nursing home negligence cases, and we promise to offer a higher level of service to help you and your family get your life back on track after this difficult time. We believe that to do the most for your loved one, you need to know 5 signs of nursing home negligence and what can be done about it.

From our experience as Corpus Christi attorneys, we’ve learned the following are the most common signs of negligence in the nursing home:

1. Unsanitary Living Environment - Every nursing home is required to provide a “...safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment in which residents reside…” according to federal law, and they must meet state regulation standards as well. An unsanitary living environment could mean neglect. An attorney can help if you believe your loved one’s poor living conditions are a sign of neglect.
2. Inexplicable Injuries - Bruises, cuts, head injuries, and broken bones could all be signs that your loved one is being neglected. When nursing home residents do not get the care they need, they sometimes try to do things for themselves that they are actually unable to do. The CDC has reported that over 1,800 nursing home residents die annually from injuries due to falls. Many times, these falls are preventable if the nursing home is providing adequate care. Talk to Corpus Christi elder abuse lawyers to learn more.
3. Personal Hygiene Issues - Issues with hygiene can be a sign of Corpus Christi nursing home negligence. Nursing home residents need assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, putting on clothes, brushing their teeth, fixing their hair, etc. The staff at a nursing home is expected to help each resident with these tasks. If not, it’s neglect.
4. Psychological Changes - You know your loved one best. If you notice they have unexplained mood swings or shifts in behavior, it could mean they’re being neglected. Some signs include reluctance to talk about caregivers, distancing themselves from friends and family, depression, or anger.
5. Change in Mobility - When nursing homes are doing their job right, they make sure residents move around and exercise to the best of their ability. When they neglect residents, they may be left in bed for long periods of time, which can have a negative effect on their mobility. If you notice any changes concerning your loved one’s mobility, nursing home negligence lawyers serving Corpus Christi can offer you guidance.

When you suspect your loved one has been a victim of negligence in Corpus Christi, there are a number of proper steps to take. First, make sure they’re not in immediate danger. If they are, dial 9-1-1. Next, talk to them to find out what’s going on. Afterward, talk to the nursing home administrators. During this process, be sure to document everything. If you don’t get the answers or results you’re looking for after discussing the issues with the nursing home, file a formal complaint.

Throughout this process, an attorney is always available to assist you. Often times, working with Corpus Christ elder abuse lawyers will alleviate your stress and guarantee your loved one is in the best hands. At Carabin Shaw, we believe that nursing home negligence is unacceptable, so we fight with all our power for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been the victim of Corpus Christi nursing home negligence, we would love to help you. Call us today locally at 361-444-1111 and find the lawyer that’s right for you.