Many families only discover neglect after visible injury appears. By that point, harm has already compounded. Watch for:
- Unexplained bruising, cuts, or burns — especially in unusual locations
- Pressure sores (bedsores) at any stage, or wounds that are not healing
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, confusion)
- Unchanged clothing, unwashed hair, soiled linens, or odor
- Increased agitation, withdrawal, or fear around specific staff members
- Falls that staff cannot explain or that occurred without a documented incident report
- Medication discrepancies — sedation that seems excessive, or complaints of missed doses
- Evasiveness from staff when you ask direct questions about your loved one’s condition
- Sudden decline in cognitive or physical function without a documented medical cause