How Can I Tell If My Parent Is Being Abused in a Chicago Nursing Home?

 Posted on July 20, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

If you have a parent living in a nursing home, you expect them to be treated with respect, dignity, and proper medical care. Unfortunately, the news every day is full of stories proving that not all facilities live up to that standard. Some nursing homes underperform due to understaffing and poor training. Sometimes there is even intentional mistreatment. As an adult child, knowing how to recognize the signs of nursing home abuse can help you protect your loved one before the situation becomes worse.

As of July 2025, Illinois law holds nursing homes increasingly accountable under the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act (210 ILCS 45/), which gives residents the right to be free from abuse and neglect. If you suspect that something is wrong, do not doubt your instincts. Speak with an experienced and compassionate Hyde Park, IL personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to rectify the situation.

What Are Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. It can also include neglect, which occurs when a nursing home fails to meet a resident’s basic needs.

Here are some red flags that may point to nursing home abuse:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or broken bones

• Sudden weight loss or signs of malnutrition

• Poor hygiene or soiled clothing and bedding

• Fear, anxiety, depression, or withdrawn behavior

• Sudden changes in medication or overmedication

• Bedsores or untreated medical conditions

• Staff refusing to leave you alone with your parent

• Missing money, valuables, or strange financial activity

• Your parent appears fearful around certain staff members

What Should I Do If I Think My Parent Is a Victim of Nursing Home Abuse?

If you suspect abuse, there are several steps you can take to document the issue and protect your parent. Make sure to visit often, at varied times. If you can show up unannounced, it gives you a better picture of what daily care looks like. If you notice any injuries, unsafe conditions, or signs of neglect, take photos and keep notes. Ask your parent open-ended questions in a calm, supportive way, understanding that they may be hesitant to speak up due to fear or embarrassment.

If you believe your suspicions are confirmed, file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to report the abuse, and if you believe it is an emergency, call 911. Then, contact a nursing home abuse attorney who can investigate the situation, preserve evidence, and advise you on next steps.

If the nursing home’s negligence or misconduct caused your parent harm, you may be able to file a lawsuit. These claims can seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Many nursing home abuse cases are settled before trial, but some go to court. An experienced attorney can help build a strong case by gathering medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and staff history.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

If you are worried about your parent’s safety in a nursing home, do not wait. Contact a Hyde Park, IL personal injury attorney at Kadzai Law Group, LLC for a free consultation. We will fight to protect your loved one’s rights and hold negligent facilities accountable. Call 312-229-0050 today to learn more.