Signs of nursing home neglect: bedsores, falls, dehydration

Families are often the first to notice that something is wrong in a nursing home or assisted living facility. None of the signs below proves neglect on its own: people in care can decline for many reasons. But they are worth writing down, raising with the facility, and reporting if you are worried.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Where to report elder abuse in California lists the other places to go.

Bedsores (pressure injuries)

Bedsores form where skin is pressed for a long time, often over the hips, tailbone, heels and shoulders. Residents who cannot move on their own depend on staff to turn and reposition them. Ask how often that happens, and ask to be told about any skin breakdown. Redness that does not fade, open wounds or a bad smell from a dressing are reasons to ask a nurse or doctor straight away.

Falls

Repeated falls, unexplained bruises or fractures, or a fall you were not told about are worth asking about: what happened, who saw it, and what the facility has changed since. Ask whether the resident's care plan includes fall prevention.

Dehydration and weight loss

Signs can include sudden confusion, dry mouth, very little urine, loose-fitting clothes and untouched meal trays. Some residents need help to eat and drink. Ask whether intake is recorded, and how often the resident is weighed.

Other warning signs

• Poor hygiene, soiled bedding or clothes, or an unclean room.
• Missed or wrong medications, or sudden drowsiness.
• Withdrawal, fear of particular staff, or reluctance to talk when staff are present.
• Unexplained changes in bank accounts, missing belongings, or new "friends" handling money. That can be financial elder abuse.

What to write down

Dates, times, what you saw, who you spoke to and what they said. Photos of injuries or conditions, if the resident agrees. Keep copies of anything the facility gives you. Notes made at the time are far more useful later than memories.

In this directory (as of November 5, 2026), 125 firms list nursing home abuse and neglect, 26 firms bedsores, 2 firms falls in care facilities, 19 firms dehydration and malnutrition and 24 firms assisted living neglect, as each firm states.

This is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Deadlines apply to these claims; ask a lawyer about yours. Find Malpractice Lawyers is a directory, not a law firm or lawyer referral service.