Is Your Loved One Being Neglected? How to File a Complaint Against a Nursing Home

Every year, thousands of seniors suffer neglect in nursing homes, but shockingly, most cases go unreported. Many families don’t know what to look for, are unsure of their rights, or feel powerless against large care facilities.

If you suspect that your loved one isn’t getting the care they deserve, you need to act fast—before their health and safety are at even greater risk.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✅ Warning signs of neglect—so you can recognize a problem before it’s too late.

✅ Step-by-step instructions on how to file a complaint against a nursing home.

✅ Your rights as a family member or caregiver and how to use them.

✅ When to escalate the situation legally and what to expect.

✅ Resources and organizations (including H.E.A.R.T. 4 Seniors Foundation) that can help you take action.

Nursing home neglect is never acceptable. This guide will give you the tools to fight for your loved one and ensure they get the care they deserve.

Signs Your Loved One May Be Suffering from Neglect

Most cases of nursing home neglect don’t happen overnight. It starts small. Maybe your loved one complains about their food being cold. Maybe they seem more withdrawn than usual. Maybe you notice their bed linens haven’t been changed in a while.

But these small warning signs can quickly escalate into serious issues—like dehydration, untreated infections, and even wrongful death.

Physical Signs of Neglect

• Bedsores (pressure ulcers), which indicate they’ve been left in one position for too long.

• Rapid weight loss or malnutrition, suggesting they aren’t being fed properly.

• Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) from poor hygiene or dehydration.

• Unexplained bruises or injuries, which could be from falls or mishandling.

• Strong body odor, dirty clothing, or unwashed hair, showing a lack of basic hygiene care.

Emotional & Behavioral Red Flags

• Withdrawal from family or friends—your once lively parent seems quiet, depressed, or anxious.

• Fear of staff members—they become nervous or refuse to talk when certain caregivers are around.

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior, like agitation or excessive crying.

• Avoiding certain rooms or refusing treatment, possibly because of past mistreatment.

Environmental Clues

• Filthy or cluttered rooms, soiled bedding, or the smell of urine or feces.

• Medication mismanagement—either overmedication or skipped doses.

• Overworked or dismissive staff, who seem irritated or rushed when you ask questions.

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, it’s time to take action. Your loved one’s health and safety could depend on it.

Immediate Actions to Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect

Step 1: Document Everything

The more evidence you have, the stronger your case. Take notes every time you visit. Keep a log of:

• What your loved one tells you.

• Any physical injuries or concerning changes.

• The condition of their room.

• Dates and times of anything suspicious.

💡 Pro tip: Take photos or videos of any visible signs of neglect (bedsores, dirty rooms, injuries).

Step 2: Talk to Your Loved One

Sometimes seniors hesitate to speak up because they fear retaliation from staff. Here’s how to encourage honesty:

✔ Ask open-ended questions like, “Have you felt safe and cared for?”

✔ Speak privately so they feel comfortable sharing.

✔ Reassure them that they won’t get in trouble for telling the truth.

Step 3: Speak with the Nursing Home Staff

Before escalating the situation, give the facility a chance to fix the issue.

• Request a meeting with the administrator or director of nursing.

• Ask for an explanation about any concerns you have.

• Take notes on their responses and promises for improvement.

💡 If they brush off your concerns or fail to act, escalate the complaint.

How to File a Complaint Against a Nursing Home

Step 1: Contact the Facility’s Administrator

By law, every nursing home must have a formal complaint process. Submit a written complaint detailing:

• The issues you’ve observed.

• Any conversations you’ve had with staff.

• What you expect them to do to fix the problem.

📌 If they ignore you or dismiss your concerns, move on to step 2.

Step 2: Report to State & Federal Authorities

Nursing homes are heavily regulated. If the facility isn’t taking action, file an official complaint with your state’s regulatory agencies:

✔ Your state’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman (Find yours here)

✔ State Health Department (Check your state’s website for complaint forms)

✔ Adult Protective Services (APS) (Handles elder abuse and neglect cases)

💡 Most states let you file complaints online, by phone, or by mail. Include photos, medical records, and detailed reports.

Step 3: Contact a Senior Advocacy Organization

If you’re not getting anywhere with state agencies, organizations like H.E.A.R.T. 4 Seniors Foundation can help. We fight for systemic change in elderly care, advocate for families, and help you through the complaint process.

💙 Donate to H.E.A.R.T. 4 Seniors Foundation to help us keep fighting for seniors’ rights.

When to Consider Legal Action

If your loved one has suffered serious injury, medical complications, or death due to neglect, legal action may be necessary.

Signs You Need a Lawyer

✔ The facility refuses to take responsibility.

✔ Your complaint has been ignored or dismissed.

✔ Your loved one has suffered severe health consequences.

Finding an Elder Abuse Attorney

Many attorneys specialize in nursing home abuse cases and offer free consultations. The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) provides a directory of legal resources.

📌 If legal fees are a concern, some lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if you win the case.

What Happens After Filing a Complaint?

✔ Investigation Process – The state will inspect the facility, interview staff and residents, and review records.

✔ Possible Outcomes – The facility may get fined, be put on probation, or even lose its license.

✔ Follow-Up – Check in regularly to ensure improvements are made.

💙 H.E.A.R.T. 4 Seniors Foundation can guide you through the process. Learn more about how we help families.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait—Take Action Now

If you suspect nursing home neglect, don’t ignore your instincts. Your actions can protect your loved one and prevent further harm.

💡 Here’s what to do next:

✔ Start documenting everything.

✔ Report concerns to the nursing home administrator.

✔ File a formal complaint with state authorities.

✔ Seek legal help if necessary.

💙 Want to help us fight for better senior care? Donate now to support our advocacy work and help families like yours.

Seniors deserve dignity, safety, and respect. Let’s make sure they get it.