Signs of Neglect

Physical Signs

Physical signs of abuse or neglect are sometimes visible, but not always. Watch for:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns — especially in unusual locations or in various stages of healing
• Bedsores (pressure ulcers) — particularly Stage II or higher, which are often preventable with proper care
• Sudden or significant weight loss — which may indicate malnourishment or dehydration
• Poor hygiene — unwashed hair, body odor, soiled clothing or bedding, or overgrown nails
• Untreated wounds or infections — injuries that have gone unaddressed or appear to be worsening
• Fractures or broken bones — especially in the absence of a clear or credible explanation
• Signs of dehydration — dry mouth, sunken eyes, confusion, or dark urine

Behavioral and Emotional Signs

Changes in mood or behavior can be just as telling as physical symptoms:

• Withdrawal or unusual quietness — particularly around specific caregivers or staff members
• Increased anxiety, fearfulness, or agitation — especially in settings where a person previously felt comfortable
• Depression or sudden emotional changes — including tearfulness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities
• Confusion or disorientation — that seems out of proportion to an existing condition, or that appears suddenly
• Reluctance to speak in front of caregivers — or distress when caregivers are nearby

Neglect by a Care Facility or Caregiver

Neglect occurs when a caregiver or institution fails to provide the basic care a person needs and is entitled to receive. Signs that neglect may be occurring include:

• Residents left in soiled clothing or bedding for extended periods
• Failure to reposition bedridden residents, leading to pressure sores
• Inadequate supervision resulting in falls or wandering
• Missed medications or improper medication management
• Lack of assistance with eating or drinking for those who need it
• Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions
• Failure to notify family members of accidents, incidents, or changes in condition

Financial Exploitation

Financial abuse is one of the most underreported forms of elder and dependent adult abuse. Warning signs include:

• Unexplained withdrawals or changes in bank account activity
• Missing money, valuables, or personal belongings
• Sudden changes to a will, trust, power of attorney, or beneficiary designations
• Unpaid bills despite adequate financial resources
• A caregiver or new acquaintance showing unusual interest in your loved one’s finances
• Your loved one appearing confused about or unaware of recent financial transactions

Signs of Abuse in Children or Dependent Adults in Institutional Care

Abuse and neglect are not limited to the elderly. Children in foster care, schools, or other supervised settings — and dependent adults in group homes or other facilities — can also be victims. Additional warning signs in these populations include:

• Unexplained physical injuries or complaints of pain
• Regressive behaviors such as bedwetting, thumb-sucking, or clinging
• Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior
• Fear of going to school, a caregiver’s home, or a particular location
• Sudden changes in academic performance or social behavior
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they previously enjoyed