get your free consultation
Spotting unexplained injuries, sudden weight loss, or behavioral changes in a care facility raises serious concerns, and knowing what to do if you suspect nursing home neglect is critical to protecting your loved one. At Goldblatt + Singer, we understand how overwhelming it can be to confront the possibility of mistreatment.
Families have the right to demand answers. Bring your concerns to the facility’s leadership, request a written investigation response, and maintain records of all communication. When meaningful action is not taken or concerns are dismissed, legal support becomes an essential step toward ensuring safety and accountability.
Nursing home abuse is any intentional act—or failure to act—that causes harm to a resident, whether physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial. Elderly or cognitively impaired residents are especially vulnerable and often unable to advocate for themselves. Abuse may occur over time or arise from a single, critical failure in care.
According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, more than one in five high-risk nursing homes were cited for abuse-related deficiencies between 2013 and 2017. These included failures to provide proper supervision, medical care, and protection from physical harm, exposing systemic gaps in safety protocols and oversight across many facilities.
Abuse can take many forms:
These actions may be committed by staff members, fellow residents, or outside visitors. Many cases go unreported due to victims’ fear, shame, cognitive decline, or inability to communicate. It’s often up to loved ones to recognize the warning signs and intervene before the harm escalates or becomes permanent.
Here are the common signs of nursing home abuse or neglect to remain aware of:
If you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect, it is important to act immediately and document everything thoroughly. Taking prompt action not only protects your loved one but also strengthens the case if legal steps are taken, particularly in cases involving uncooperative facilities or contested facts.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services provides clear guidance on what to do when abuse is suspected:
Swift and thorough action helps not only the resident but also others who may be at risk in the same facility.
For additional support or if the nursing home administration is dragging their feet, report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation in Missouri by:
The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will review the complaint and assign investigators to the case. If you provide your address, they will send you a letter confirming receipt of your complaint and information on how it will be handled.
Yes, you can file a lawsuit against a nursing home in Missouri if abuse or neglect results in injury or death. Facilities that breach their duty of care may be held liable through civil legal action and required to answer for the harm caused under state and federal law.
Lawsuits may be filed under several legal theories:
Families who pursue a lawsuit may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
Additional losses may also be considered, such as the cost of relocation to a new facility or long-term therapy. Under Missouri law, most personal injury claims must be filed within five years. However, the deadline may be shorter in cases involving medical malpractice or wrongful death. The earlier the action is taken, the better the chance of securing evidence and protecting legal rights.
If you spot warning signs of a nursing home resident being abused, consult a St. Louis Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer as soon as possible. They will understand the importance of finding answers and holding the nursing home responsible. Nursing homes are required by law to provide residents with a very strict standard of care based on the 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act, state laws, and industry standards. Therefore, any deviation from their duty exposes the facility to civil and criminal liability.
A nursing home abuse lawyer will have a thorough understanding of the relevant state laws and the resources to thoroughly investigate your claim. If they determine you have a case, they will explain your options and gather the evidence needed to support taking legal action. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Jeff Singer, Managing Partner at Goldblatt + Singer for over a decade, is a seasoned personal injury attorney known for his compassionate yet tough advocacy. He has resolved hundreds of cases and recovered millions for clients. Recognized as a Missouri Super Lawyer and Top 100 National Trial Lawyer, Jeff also serves on the Missouri Bar’s Chief Disciplinary Committee and the Board of Governors for the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys.
This page has been created, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our thorough editorial guidelines. It was approved by our Founding Partner, Jeffrey Singer, who has over 30 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.
call us at (314) 936-3434