Is My Loved One Being Neglected or Abused in an Illinois Nursing Home?

 Posted on June 17, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect

In theory, nursing homes were designed to provide compassionate care for some of the most vulnerable members of society. In practice, those entrusted with your loved one’s care may not take the job as seriously as they should. In Illinois, you have the right to hold nursing home staff or the facility legally liable for nursing home neglect and abuse, and a knowledgeable Chicago, IL nursing home abuse lawyer can help you identify signs of neglect and take legal action for your loved one.

Physical Signs of Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse

Neglect occurs when nursing home caregivers fail to meet the basic needs of residents. This can include medical care, food, safety, and hygiene. Some more obvious signs of abuse are physical, and they can include unexplained fractures, cuts, or bruises. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, can indicate that they have not been repositioned in bed. They may exhibit sudden changes in mobility and weight or have an obvious decline in personal hygiene. If an individual caregiver or the owner of a nursing home is responsible for your loved one’s suffering, they could face civil action and criminal charges under Illinois law.

Subtle Signs of Nursing Home Neglect or Abuse That You May Overlook

Some signs are there but not as obvious as physical neglect or abuse, and they include:

• Behavioral and emotional signs: Sudden changes in mood and withdrawal from activities they previously enjoyed can indicate that they are being abused. They may also exhibit behaviors that indicate trauma, such as refusing to communicate, mumbling, or showing fear in the presence of some staff members.

• Financial signs: Not all abuse is physical. Nursing home patients can be financially exploited. Signs might include unusual bank activity and changes to legal documents like a will.

• Behavioral signs in the staff: Sometimes, you may notice subtle ways that staff members disrespect or dismiss your loved one during interactions. For example, they may ignore requests for help or be aggressive. If you notice significant turnover or shortages in staff, that could be a red flag.

• Medical errors: Signs of medical neglect can look like errors in medication management, missed appointments, or failing to follow up on health concerns.

Document any signs of potential abuse or neglect that you notice. This can include taking photos, making notes, and keeping medical records. Your attorney can use this information as evidence.

What To Do if You Think Your Loved One Is Being Neglected or Abused in a Nursing Home

Taking immediate action is critical in a nursing home abuse case. You can report the abuse to the Department of Public Health in Illinois on your own, but you should speak to an attorney with experience in nursing home abuse cases. Your legal counsel will provide support and help you pursue justice and compensation on behalf of your loved one.

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today

At the first sign of nursing home neglect, you should take swift action and contact a Chicago nursing home neglect lawyer at Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC. We have helped victims of nursing home abuse and neglect recover millions in compensation from the facilities that were trusted with their care. Call 312-236-6324 today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help you and your loved one.