Caring for an elderly loved one is never easy, and many families turn to nursing homes in White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, and across Westchester County to provide the supervision and medical attention they cannot manage at home. These facilities have a legal and moral duty to provide safe, attentive care.
Unfortunately, due to staff shortages, undertraining, and—sometimes—neglect, that duty is not always met. For families, this raises a difficult but critical question: how do you know if your loved one is receiving proper care?
This blog explores the most common forms of nursing home negligence, how to spot early warning signs, and what steps you can take to protect your loved ones.
Why Nursing Homes Must Be Diligent
Nursing homes care for residents with serious health needs, from Alzheimer’s disease to mobility issues. These conditions make residents especially vulnerable. Even a small lapse in care—such as failing to turn a patient in bed or leaving them unattended—can result in devastating harm.
When facilities are understaffed, overworked nurses and aides may cut corners. Sadly, it’s often the residents who pay the price.
The Most Common Nursing Home Injury Claims
While every situation is unique, two issues arise again and again in personal injury claims against nursing homes in White Plains and surrounding counties:
1. Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores)
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, develop when residents are left in the same position for too long without being moved. They often appear on the back, heels, or hips. Left untreated, they can quickly become open wounds prone to infection.
What to watch for:
- Redness, swelling, or open sores on the skin
- Unexplained infections or complaints of pain when sitting/lying down
- Medical staff being vague or dismissive about skin checks
2. Falls from Beds, Chairs, or While Moving
Falls are another leading cause of injury in nursing homes. Residents may fall while being transferred to a wheelchair, while walking to the bathroom, or even when left alone in bed without proper safety rails.
What to watch for:
- Unexplained bruises or fractures
- A loved one suddenly becoming fearful of walking or transfers
- Staff being slow or unclear about how an injury happened
Warning Signs Families Should Look For
When visiting your loved one in a nursing home, small details often reveal larger problems. Here are red flags to be mindful of:
- Frequent injuries or hospital visits without clear explanations
- Sudden weight loss or signs of dehydration
- Changes in mood or withdrawal, especially if your loved one seems fearful of certain staff
- Poor hygiene, such as dirty clothes, unwashed hair, or strong odors
- Delayed staff response times when residents call for help
Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s worth asking questions.
Case Example
“In a case against a local Senior Living Facility, the 86 year Westchester resident
struck his head on an air conditioner unit when being transferred out of bed by staff
causing a brain bleed and his subsequent death within 48 hours. We successfully negotiated
a settlement for his wrongful death in the mid six-figure range. “
What Families Can Do
If you suspect neglect or abuse, take action early:
- Document everything – Take photos of injuries, note dates, and keep all medical reports.
- Ask direct questions – Request explanations from staff and administrators.
- Visit at irregular times – Unannounced visits give you a more accurate picture of daily care.
- Report concerns – You can contact New York’s Department of Health or local ombudsman services.
- Seek legal guidance – Speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and whether a claim may be appropriate.
Concluding Thoughts
Nursing homes in White Plains and throughout Westchester play a critical role in caring for our most vulnerable family members. But when they fail to meet basic standards, residents suffer consequences that could have been prevented.
If you’ve noticed warning signs of neglect—such as pressure sores or unexplained falls—it may be time to take a closer look. Don’t ignore your concerns.
If you’re concerned about the care your loved one is receiving in a nursing home in White Plains, Westchester County, or anywhere in New York or Connecticut, don’t wait to get answers. Contact James C. Freeman today for a free initial consultation:
📞 Call: (914) 948-4700
💻 Contact Form: www.kenthazzard.com/contact
📧 Email: jfreeman@kenthazzard.com
Jim will take the time to listen to your concerns, carefully review the facts, and guide you through the next steps with the experience and compassion that have defined his practice for over three decades.