Nursing Home Neglect

While Massachusetts requires nursing homes to be licensed and undergo regular inspections, many issues go unnoticed or unreported—often until a resident suffers serious harm or even death.

Neglect can take many forms, and even seemingly small oversights can have serious consequences. Failing to reposition a bedridden patient can lead to painful bedsores, which may result in severe infections or even death. Not following a doctor’s dietary guidelines can cause dangerous malnutrition or dehydration. Medication errors are also common and can be a serious form of negligence.

Abuse in nursing homes is a grave concern and can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse by staff, such as kicking, slapping, pinching, pushing, shaking, or beating

• Violence from other residents, including physical assaults

• Unnecessary or excessive physical restraints

• Chemical restraints, such as sedating a patient without medical necessity

• Excessive force or threats of harm

• Verbal abuse, humiliation, or ridicule

• Sexual assault or battery, including rape

As disturbing as these realities are, the warning signs are not always immediately apparent. Families are often shocked to learn the suffering their loved ones have endured at the hands of those entrusted with their care.

In many instances, families discover that nursing home employees were inadequately trained or hired without proper background checks.

While staff members are legally obligated to report suspected abuse or neglect, they often fail to do so—prioritizing the facility’s reputation over the well-being of the residents.

If you suspect your loved one is experiencing abuse or neglect, pay close attention to the following warning signs:

• Dehydration or malnutrition

• Pressure ulcers (also known as bed sores)

• Emotional agitation or upset, becoming withdrawn

• Instances of wandering or elopement

• Infections

• Falls, fractures or head injuries

• Unsanitary conditions

• Unexplained injuries, including wounds, cuts, bruises or welts

• Unexplained death of a resident

• Rapid weight loss or weight gain

• Unusual changes in resident behavior

• Injuries that require emergency medical care or hospitalization

• Frequent illnesses

• Heavy medication