How Can Families Spot — and Act On — Nursing Home Neglect During the Holidays?

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Key Takeaway:
If you discover an injury while visiting a loved one in a nursing home, you should seek medical care, document the scene, report the incident, and consult a personal injury attorney to protect both their health and legal rights.

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December is one of the most challenging months for long-term care facilities. With reduced staffing, temporary workers, and increased distractions, patient care can easily slip through the cracks. Missed medications, skipped meals, dehydration, unsafe conditions, and delayed assistance are all red flags that something is wrong.

If your loved one appears injured, weak, confused, or fearful during a holiday visit, it may be a sign of neglect. Knowing how to respond quickly and appropriately can make all the difference.

Here’s What to Do If You Discover a Nursing Home Injury

Discovering your loved one harmed or neglected is deeply upsetting — but taking the right steps can protect their health and strengthen any future claim.

1. Seek medical care outside the facility

Your loved one should be evaluated by an independent medical provider as soon as possible. Outside physicians are more objective and will document injuries without influence from the facility. These records are often critical when proving neglect.

2. Document the scene and the injury

Use your phone to photograph:

• Visible injuries

• The room and surrounding environment

• Hazards, clutter, or unsafe conditions

• Bedding, hygiene issues, or mobility equipment

Write down everything you observed, including dates, times, staff interactions, and your loved one’s statements.

3. Request an incident report — and get a copy

Ask the nursing home for a written incident report immediately. Ensure it accurately reflects:

• What happened

• When it happened

• Who was involved

• How staff responded

Keep your own copy. If they refuse to provide one, note the refusal — it may indicate deeper problems.

4. File a formal complaint if you suspect neglect

Submit your concerns in writing to the facility administrator and request an internal review. Save all emails, letters, and responses. Consistent documentation helps show a pattern of neglect if the issue escalates.

Do You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect? Call Shaw.

No family should discover a loved one harmed during a holiday visit. If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency treatment

• Hospital bills

• Pain and suffering

• Long-term care needs

• Wrongful death

• And more

📞 Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with a San Antonio personal injury attorney.
No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

We look forward to serving you.