A few signs of nursing home abuse include physical injuries, sudden emotional changes, and unusual financial activity. In many cases, the signs are subtle at first but can point to serious harm if left unaddressed.
Many families trust these facilities to care for their loved ones. So, when something feels off, it’s hard to know what to do. You might feel worried, confused, or even guilty for questioning what’s happening. Our nursing home lawyers in Toledo will help you understand the signs and take legal action.
Nursing home abuse cases are complicated. Proving neglect or harm involves medical records, staff reports, and witness statements. Our team of Toledo nursing home abuse lawyers will investigate the abuse, hold the right people accountable, and demand full and fair damages for you and your loved one.
Visible Clues Can Point to Physical Signs of Elder Abuse
Physical abuse and neglect often leave visible marks. If your loved one has injuries that are unexplained or don’t match the staff’s story, pay attention.
Common physical signs include:
- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns
- Bedsores or pressure ulcers
- Frequent falls or broken bones
- Dehydration or weight loss
- Poor hygiene or soiled bedding
- Overmedication, undermedication, or medication errors
If staff members at the facility avoid your questions or discourage you from visiting, that’s also a red flag.
For a free legal consultation, call (419) 930-3030
Emotional and Behavioral Changes Can Signal Mistreatment
Emotional abuse doesn’t leave visible injuries, but it can still deeply harm residents.
The following behavioral changes can signal that something happened to your relative:
- Showing fear or anxiety around certain staff members
- Sudden withdrawal or depression
- Mood swings or increased agitation
- Refusal to speak or eat
- Trouble sleeping or nightmares
These changes may suggest verbal abuse, isolation, or even retaliation for reporting issues.
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Missing Money Among Signs of Financial Abuse in Nursing Homes
Sadly, some residents become targets for theft or fraud.
Watch for these financial warning signs:
- Missing money or valuables
- Sudden changes in bank accounts
- Unfamiliar charges or withdrawals
- New “friends” influencing financial decisions
- Changes to wills or power of attorney
If your loved one seems confused about money or overly trusting of staff, investigate further.
Signs of Neglect and Unsafe Living Conditions
Neglect is a form of abuse. It happens when caregivers don’t meet basic needs.
Signs of neglect include:
- Dirty living spaces
- Unsafe hallways or bathrooms
- Lack of help with eating or mobility
- Missed medical treatments or delayed care
- Ignored call buttons or alarms
Even good facilities can have bad staff or under-trained workers. Don’t ignore your instincts.
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We Will Lead Your Nursing Home Abuse Case While You Care for Your Family Member
Our experienced trial lawyers know how to handle nursing home abuse cases with skill and care. We’re proud to be part of the local community and will give your case our full attention.
When you work with our nursing home abuse lawyers in Toledo, we will:
- Investigate signs of abuse and collect strong evidence.
- Deal with the facility, insurance companies, and government agencies.
- File claims within all legal deadlines.
- Fight for the full damages your family deserves.
- Keep you informed and supported at all times.
We will be there for you and your family throughout your case. We’re not a billboard firm—we’re your neighbors, and we will fight for you.
Various Damages Are Available in Nursing Home Abuse Cases
If you are seeking legal action against a facility for elder abuse or neglect, the damages you can receive will depend on what happened and what your loved one went through. Your losses could include:
- Medical bills: For hospital care, medications, surgeries, exams, bloodwork, and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering: For physical and emotional harm
- Mental health care: For trauma or therapy needs
- Wrongful death damages: If abuse leads to death (If so, our wrongful death lawyers in Toledo will lead your case.)
- Punitive damages: If the abuse was intentional or extremely harmful (the court awards these damages in rare cases.)
In Ohio, if an intentional act caused the abuse, the statute of limitations may be only one year. This makes it even more important to speak with a lawyer quickly. We will advise you if your case falls into the two-year window outlined in Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10.
Who Handles Nursing Home Abuse Complaints in Ohio?
If you suspect abuse, report it right away. You don’t need to have proof to speak up.
In Ohio, you can contact any of the following:
- The Ohio Department of Health (ODH): You can contact the department with complaints about nursing home conditions and care. The Abuse, Neglect, Misappropriation, and Exploitation Program investigates allegations of abuse.
- The Office of the State Long–Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for residents and helps families raise concerns.
- Adult Protective Services (APS): Investigates abuse or neglect of older adults.
- Local law enforcement: You should contact the authorities in your area, especially if you believe someone committed a crime.
After reporting the issue, speak with our personal injury attorneys to understand your rights and next steps.
What to Do If You See Signs of Abuse in an Elder Care Facility
If you think your loved one is being mistreated, take these steps:
- Document everything: Take photos, carefully write down what you see or what you hear, and collect medical records.
- Talk to your loved one: Gently ask if they feel safe and listen carefully.
- Report the issue: Contact the appropriate state agency or call 911 if it’s urgent.
- Call our law firm: We will guide you and take swift legal action if needed.
The earlier you act, the safer your loved one will be.
Has Your Loved One Experienced Nursing Home Abuse? Call Us
At Groth & Associates, our experienced trial lawyers know how to handle nursing home abuse cases with skill and care. We’ve been protecting Ohio families with over 100 years of combined experience.
If you’re seeing the warning signs of nursing home abuse or neglect, don’t wait to take action. Call Groth & Associates today for a free consultation. You don’t have to figure this out alone—we will help you.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form