When Georgia families entrust a nursing home or assisted living facility with the care of an elderly loved one, they have every right to expect professionalism, safety, and compassion. Unfortunately, instances of nursing home abuse and neglect remain a serious and growing concern throughout the state. Recognizing the warning signs early is critical to protecting your loved one’s health and preserving their legal rights.
At Holbert Law, our Atlanta nursing home abuse attorneys have represented families across Georgia in cases involving abuse, neglect, and wrongful death. This guide outlines the most common warning signs of nursing home mistreatment and the legal steps families can take to address it.
1. Unexplained Injuries or Bruising
Unexplained bruises, fractures, or other physical injuries are among the most obvious red flags of potential abuse. Injuries that appear in unusual locations — such as the wrists, upper arms, or inner thighs — may suggest improper restraint or physical assault. In many cases, staff may attribute such injuries to “accidents,” but repeated or patterned injuries often indicate something more serious.
Under Georgia law, nursing facilities are required to maintain a safe environment and report any injury that may be the result of abuse. Failure to do so can result in civil liability and administrative penalties.
2. Malnutrition and Dehydration
Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or dry skin can indicate malnutrition or dehydration — two of the most common forms of neglect in long-term care facilities. When residents are not provided adequate nutrition, their immune systems weaken and their risk of infection increases.
The National Institute on Aging notes that malnutrition in older adults can quickly lead to life-threatening complications. Facilities that fail to provide proper meals or hydration may be held legally accountable for the resulting harm.
3. Poor Hygiene and Unsanitary Conditions
Nursing homes have a duty to maintain clean, safe, and sanitary living conditions. Dirty clothing, unwashed residents, foul odors, and unclean bedding are strong indicators of neglect. Unsanitary conditions not only compromise dignity but can also lead to infections, bedsores, and respiratory illnesses.
Georgia law mandates that licensed facilities comply with hygiene and infection control standards. When these standards are violated, it is often a symptom of inadequate staffing or improper supervision — both of which may constitute neglect under state and federal law.
4. Emotional Withdrawal or Fear of Staff
Emotional or psychological abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse. If your loved one becomes withdrawn, anxious, or fearful when certain staff members are present, it may indicate verbal abuse, humiliation, or intimidation. Victims may also refuse to speak openly about their treatment due to fear of retaliation.
These behavioral changes should never be dismissed as normal aging. Document any concerning behavior and discuss it with your loved one’s physician or a qualified elder abuse attorney.
5. Bedsores (Pressure Ulcers)
Bedsores develop when residents are left in the same position for prolonged periods without movement. They are entirely preventable with proper care and repositioning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that over one in ten nursing home residents suffer from pressure ulcers, most of which result from neglect.
These injuries can progress quickly and cause life-threatening infections. A facility’s failure to prevent or properly treat bedsores is a clear violation of its duty of care.
6. Medication Mismanagement
Medication errors — including skipped doses, overmedication, or incorrect prescriptions — can cause severe health complications. Overmedicating residents to keep them subdued, sometimes referred to as “chemical restraint,” is illegal and unethical. Likewise, failing to provide required medications on schedule can constitute medical negligence.
Families should monitor medication records and speak with healthcare providers about any sudden behavioral changes, unexplained drowsiness, or confusion in their loved one.
7. Restricted Visitation or Staff Secrecy
Transparency is essential in long-term care facilities. If staff appear evasive, defensive, or attempt to limit your access to your loved one, it should raise immediate concern. Georgia law grants family members and guardians the right to visit residents and obtain information about their care.
Facilities that block access or discourage family visits may be attempting to conceal misconduct or falsify records. Document all interactions and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
8. Frequent or Unexplained Falls
Falls are a leading cause of injury among nursing home residents, but frequent or unexplained falls may indicate inadequate supervision, poor facility maintenance, or failure to use mobility aids properly. Nursing homes must assess each resident’s fall risk and implement individualized care plans to prevent injuries.
If a facility fails to take these precautions, it may be held liable for negligence under Georgia tort law.
9. Financial Exploitation
Financial abuse can occur when staff members or administrators gain access to a resident’s bank accounts, credit cards, or personal belongings. Warning signs include missing valuables, unauthorized withdrawals, or sudden changes to financial documents such as wills or power of attorney forms.
Families who suspect financial exploitation should contact Georgia Adult Protective Services and consult an attorney experienced in elder law and financial exploitation claims.
10. Unresponsive or Overworked Staff
Chronic understaffing is one of the most significant contributors to neglect. When facilities fail to maintain adequate staff-to-resident ratios, residents may be left unattended for hours, resulting in missed medications, untreated injuries, and emotional distress.
Georgia’s Department of Community Health requires nursing homes to meet minimum staffing and training standards. When facilities fail to comply, they can face state sanctions in addition to civil liability for neglect.
Legal Options for Families in Georgia
Families who suspect abuse or neglect should take immediate action. Start by documenting every concern — including dates, photographs, and the names of involved staff members. Report your findings to facility management and file a complaint with the Georgia Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
Next, contact an experienced Atlanta nursing home abuse lawyer. A qualified attorney can investigate the facility, obtain medical records, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. Legal intervention not only protects your loved one but also helps prevent future abuse within the facility.
Why Families Turn to Holbert Law
Holbert Law has a proven record of holding Georgia nursing homes accountable for negligent and abusive practices. Our legal team is dedicated to protecting vulnerable residents and enforcing the standards set forth under both state and federal law, including the Nursing Home Reform Act.
We combine thorough investigation, expert testimony, and litigation experience to pursue maximum compensation for victims and their families. You can review our case results to see how we have successfully resolved complex elder abuse claims across Georgia.
Speak with an Atlanta Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
If you suspect your loved one is being neglected or mistreated in a nursing home, do not delay seeking legal counsel. Contact Holbert Law today for a confidential consultation. Our team will evaluate your case, explain your options, and take decisive action to protect your loved one’s rights and safety.
Visit our homepage for more information or call us directly to schedule your free consultation. Holbert Law proudly represents clients in Atlanta, Fulton County, and throughout Georgia.