As a family member, you should be on constant alert for signs that your loved one is not being treated properly at a Missouri nursing home. Here are some common warning signs to look for:

• Bed sores
• Frozen joints (which are a sign of contractures which are very painful and make it substantially more difficult to prevent or treat bed sores)
• Unexplained bruising or bruising in a pattern that would suggest physical abuse, restraints, cuts, burns, sprains, fractures, or open wounds
• Unexplained or sudden weight loss
• Fleas, lice, ants, or dirt on the resident or in the resident’s room
• Odors of feces or urine
• Poor personal hygiene
• Over-medication (some nursing homes will intentionally over-medicate residents to make them easier to care for)
• Torn clothing or broken personal items
• Unexplained genital infections/diseases or vaginal/anal bleeding
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as fear or being withdrawn
• Staff refusing to allow the resident visitors or unexplained delays in allowing visitors to see the resident
• Unexplained lost possessions
• Sudden large, unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts or changes in baking habits
• Sudden, unexplained changes in Will or other important financial documents

If you loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, you should be very concerned. Take pictures of any signs or symptoms of abuse or neglect and contact an attorney who can help guide you through what to do next.