What Are Signs of Nursing Home Neglect in Illinois?

 Posted on July 22, 2025 in Personal Injury

Recognizing the signs of nursing home neglect is critical when a loved one is in long-term care. Some warning signs are clear, while others are easy to miss. If your family member has unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, or sudden emotional changes, it could point to neglect. If you are noticing clear signs and do not know what to do next, an Aurora, IL nursing home neglect lawyer can help you understand your legal options and take action quickly.

Examples of Nursing Home Neglect

Neglect can take many forms. Physical neglect may involve not helping residents bathe or change clothing. Medical neglect may involve not giving proper medication or failing to treat wounds. Some residents may suffer from malnutrition or dehydration if they are not monitored during meals. Emotional neglect is also common when residents are isolated or ignored, especially if they rely on staff for interaction. In many cases, neglect happens when a facility is understaffed or poorly managed.

Warning signs can signal larger failures within the facility, and with enough proof, it can cost the facility serious financial hardship. For example, in June 2025, a Cook County jury awarded $5.5 million to the family of an elderly man who died after going 13 days without dialysis in a nursing home. This is one of the largest verdicts for nursing home neglect in Illinois history. It also highlights how seriously Illinois law takes cases involving neglect.

Specific Signs of Nursing Home Neglect in Illinois

Family members are typically the first to notice something is wrong and take action. Some specific signs of neglect to look for include:

• Unclean living conditions, such as soiled bedding or strong odors in the room

• Bedsores or pressure ulcers, especially on the back, heels, or hips

• Sudden weight loss, dry mouth, or signs of dehydration

• Bruises, cuts, or broken bones that have no clear explanation

• Emotional changes like withdrawal, fearfulness, or depression

• Frequent infections or illnesses that do not improve with treatment

If you notice any signs of neglect, reach out to an experienced attorney immediately.

What Does Illinois Law Say About Nursing Home Neglect?

Illinois law offers strong protections for nursing home residents. Under 210 ILCS 45/, the Nursing Home Care Act, "neglect" is defined as a facility’s failure to provide necessary care. If the failure causes harm or creates a significant risk of harm, the facility may be held liable.

Facilities also have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment under the minimum standards for nursing homes outlined in the act under 210 ILCS 45/3‑202. These regulations cover facility design, staffing levels, care plans, and overall operations. The law is designed to ensure that residents receive structured treatment and adequate care.

When neglect or abuse is suspected, 210 ILCS 45/3‑701(a) requires immediate reporting. Facilities that fail to report or take corrective action face penalties, license suspensions, and civil consequences. Together, these statutes establish clear legal obligations. Nursing homes must deliver safe care, and if this duty is breached, residents and families have the right to complain and take legal action.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Aurora, IL Nursing Home Neglect Attorney

If you suspect your loved one is experiencing neglect or abuse in a nursing home facility, do not wait to seek legal assistance. Contact the Kane County, IL nursing home neglect lawyers at Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. to find out what you can do to stop it. Call us today at 630-907-0909 to schedule a free consultation.