If you are visiting this page, you may already have a loved one in a nursing home and feel that something is wrong. You may feel confused, worried, and unsure of what to do next. These are normal feelings. Many families struggle when they think someone they care about is not being treated the right way. We understand how hard it is to trust someone else to take care of your parent, grandparent, or spouse. When that trust is broken, it can feel like there is no clear answer. But you are not alone. We are here to help you understand what is going on and guide you if you need to take action.
What Is Nursing Home Neglect
Nursing home neglect happens when a person living in a care facility does not get the help they need. This can mean they are not getting food, medicine, clean clothes, or the care they need to stay healthy and safe. Neglect is not always about something someone does. It can also be about something they do not do. For example, if a nurse forgets to give a resident their medicine or does not help them go to the bathroom, that can be neglect. Some neglect is easy to see. Other times, it takes longer to notice. That is why families need to pay attention and know what to look for.
Physical Warning Signs to Watch For
One of the most common ways to spot nursing home neglect is through physical signs. These can show up in many ways. A loved one may have bruises, cuts, or broken bones. These could be signs they fell or were not helped in time. You may notice bedsores, which happen when someone is not moved often enough while lying down. Bedsores can be very painful and dangerous if they get infected. Another sign is weight loss. If your family member looks thinner or weaker than before, they may not be getting enough food or water. Also look for signs of poor hygiene like dirty clothes, bad smells, or messy hair. This might mean the staff is not helping with daily needs.
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Changes in Mood and Behavior
Sometimes neglect is not just physical. You may notice your loved one acting differently. They may seem sad, scared, or quiet when they used to be happy or talkative. Some people stop talking at all. They may seem nervous when certain staff members are nearby or ask to be left alone. These changes can mean something is wrong, even if you cannot see it. When someone feels ignored or mistreated, it affects how they think and feel. Trust your instincts. If your loved one seems off, there may be a reason.
Poor Living Conditions Can Be a Sign Too
Neglect can also show up in the way the nursing home looks. A clean and safe space is important. If the rooms smell bad, are messy, or do not feel safe, that is a red flag. Watch for things like trash not being taken out, bugs or rodents, and broken lights or floors. Also pay attention if your loved one’s sheets are not changed or they do not have enough clothes or personal items. A good facility should treat every resident with care and respect. If the place does not look cared for, the people living there might not be cared for either.
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Not Enough Staff Can Cause Big Problems
Many nursing homes in New York have a hard time keeping enough staff. When there are not enough people working, it is hard to care for everyone. This can lead to mistakes, forgotten needs, and rushed care. You may notice nurses or aides looking tired or in a hurry. Your loved one might say it takes too long to get help when they press their call button. Staff might skip meals or not give medicine on time. These are all signs that the nursing home is not giving the care it should. A place that is short-staffed is more likely to have cases of neglect.
What You Can Do If You Suspect Neglect
If you think your loved one is being neglected, do not wait. Start by talking to the staff or the person in charge of the nursing home. Ask questions and write down what they say. Take pictures if you see anything unsafe or wrong. Try to visit at different times of the day to see how things change. Keep a notebook to track what you see and hear. If the problem does not get better or if you feel the nursing home is not being honest, you may need to get legal help. Neglect is not just unfair—it is against the law. The people who are hurt have rights, and families can speak up for them.
Why New York Families Should Stay Alert
New York has many nursing homes, and while some provide good care, others do not. Families need to stay alert and ask questions. The state does have rules to protect people in care, but not every place follows those rules all the time. In some cases, families only find out about neglect after something serious has happened. That is why it is so important to act early. Knowing what to look for can help stop problems before they get worse. And if something has already gone wrong, there are ways to hold the nursing home accountable.
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How Legal Help Can Make a Difference
When neglect happens, it is not just about getting justice. It is also about making sure it does not happen again. A legal case can help your family get answers, get support for your loved one, and protect others in the same home. Many families worry that filing a case will take too much time or cause more stress. But the right legal team can make it easier. Lawyers who understand these cases know how to collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and fight for the care your loved one should have had. They can also work to get your family money for pain, medical costs, and other losses.
Helping Your Family Move Forward
When someone you care about has been hurt by neglect, it can leave lasting pain. But taking action can help you find peace and make sure your loved one is treated with the respect they deserve. You do not have to face this alone. We are here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and stand with you every step of the way. Your family deserves care, dignity, and justice.
Verdicts & Settlements
If you believe your loved one is being neglected in a nursing home, it is time to act. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin working together to protect your family. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we take every case seriously. We understand the pain and worry you feel, and we are ready to help you find answers. Contact us today so we can start helping your family move forward.