Nursing Home Neglect in California: Know the Signs and Your Rights

•What Is Nursing Home Neglect?

Nursing home neglect occurs when caregivers fail to meet the basic needs of residents, either through indifference, understaffing, or inadequate training. It differs from abuse in that neglect is often passive rather than intentional — but the damage can be just as severe.

Neglect may involve:

• Failure to provide food, water, or hygiene
• Delayed medical attention
• Unclean or unsafe living conditions
• Lack of mobility assistance
• Emotional isolation or lack of engagement

These lapses can lead to bedsores, malnutrition, falls, infections, and psychological distress.

•Signs That May Indicate Neglect

Families should be alert to changes in their loved ones' physical or emotional health. Warning signs include:

• Unexplained weight loss or dehydration
• Untreated medical issues or infections
• Withdrawal, depression, or anxiety
• Poor hygiene or dirty clothing/bedding
• Unexplained bruises, sores, or injuries

If any of these symptoms are present, it’s important to act quickly to investigate and, if needed, intervene.

•Legal Protections for Nursing Home Residents

California law provides strong protections for elderly individuals in nursing care facilities. The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA) allows for civil actions against facilities that engage in neglect or abuse.

Families may seek justice through:

• Investigations by local authorities or regulatory agencies
• Civil lawsuits to recover compensation for harm
• Injunctions to protect the safety of the resident

Legal action may result in compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, relocation expenses, and in some cases, punitive damages.

•Why Families Turn to McDonald Trial Lawyers

McDonald Trial Lawyers offers compassionate legal support for families navigating the trauma of nursing home neglect. With locations in San Francisco, Discovery Bay, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, the firm is deeply familiar with the complexities of elder care laws in multiple jurisdictions.

Founded by Matthew McDonald, the firm takes a client-first approach rooted in empathy, clear communication, and fierce advocacy. Every case is treated with care and urgency — because protecting vulnerable individuals isn’t just legal work, it’s a moral imperative.

•Support That Goes Beyond the Courtroom

In addition to legal representation, McDonald Trial Lawyers helps families understand their rights, explore care alternatives, and move forward with confidence. The goal is not just justice, but healing — ensuring families feel empowered in the face of a difficult experience.