If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, there are common signs you can look for that typically indicate that such treatment is occurring. Some common signs of elder abuse and neglect include:

Unplanned weight loss and malnutrition

Signs of dehydration

Nursing home staff denying, or delaying, family members and friends from visiting the resident

Unexplained bruises, cuts, bumps, fractures, sprains, burns, broken bones, etc.

Unexplained accidents, injuries, falls

Pressure sores

Infections

Strong odors of urine and feces

Soiled briefs, clothing or bedding

Unexplained changes in the resident’s mental process or cognition

Unexplained sudden changes in behavior

Loss of the resident’s possessions