Placing a family member in a nursing home is never an easy decision. It comes with the hope that they will be cared for with respect and close attention. But when signs of neglect appear, such as the development of bedsores, families are often left feeling betrayed and uncertain about what to do next.

Bedsores, also known as pressure injuries, can be a clear warning that something is wrong. They often occur when a resident is not being properly moved or attended to, which may suggest that the facility is not providing the care required by law.

If your loved one has suffered from pressure injuries in a care home, it may be time to take a closer look. In Illinois, there are laws in place to protect residents from this kind of harm. To learn what steps you can take, speak with attorney Michael J. Brennan about your concerns. A free consultation is available to help

What Are Bedsores and Why Do They Occur?

Bedsores are painful skin wounds that develop when someone stays in one position for too long without being moved. These injuries are sometimes called pressure sores or pressure ulcers. They usually appear on areas of the body where the bone is close to the skin, such as the lower back, shoulders, elbows, or heels.

The main cause is pressure that blocks blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue. Without enough circulation, the skin begins to weaken and break down. If the pressure is not relieved, a small red spot can turn into a deep wound that may take weeks or even months to heal. Infections can also develop if the sore is not treated properly.

People who have trouble moving on their own are most at risk. This includes elderly individuals who spend long hours in bed or in a wheelchair. When caregivers do not assist with changing positions or checking for early signs of skin damage, the chance of developing bedsores becomes much higher.

These injuries are often preventable when proper care is given. That is why the presence of bedsores in a care facility may suggest that someone is not receiving the attention they need.

Are Bedsores a Sign of Nursing Home Neglect?

When bedsores appear on a nursing home resident, it is often a sign that basic care may be missing. These injuries tend to happen when someone is not being moved often enough or is left without help for long periods. In a care facility, preventing pressure injuries should be part of everyday attention.

Caregivers are supposed to check on residents regularly, help them shift positions, and keep the skin clean and dry. If this routine is ignored, even for a short time, pressure can build on certain parts of the body and lead to damage. When the early warning signs are missed or ignored, what starts as a small red spot can grow into a painful open wound.

In many situations, bedsores suggest that a resident may not be getting the support they need. This could be due to staff shortages, poor training, or a failure to follow clear care plans. When these issues are not addressed, residents can suffer serious harm that could have been prevented.

Families who notice pressure injuries should take them seriously. These wounds are often avoidable, and their presence can be a clear warning that something is wrong. If you believe a loved one has been left without proper care, it may be time to ask questions and consider your legal options.

Illinois Nursing Home Laws and Resident Rights

Residents living in nursing homes across Illinois are protected by state and federal laws that are designed to ensure their health, safety, and dignity. One of the most important state laws is the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act, listed as 210 ILCS 45. This law sets clear standards for how long term care facilities must operate and how they must treat residents in their care.

Under this law, residents have the right to live in a clean and secure environment, to receive proper medical treatment, and to be free from any form of abuse or neglect. Nursing homes are required to have enough trained staff to meet the needs of their residents, follow professional care guidelines, and take all reasonable steps to prevent avoidable injuries such as bedsores.

Federal protections also apply through the Nursing Home Reform Act. These rules make it clear that residents must receive care that helps them maintain or improve their health, rather than allow their condition to get worse due to neglect.

When a facility does not follow these rules and someone suffers as a result, families may have legal grounds to take action. Knowing your rights under Illinois law can be the first step toward holding a care facility responsible for harmful conditions.

Speak With an Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Today

If your loved one has developed bedsores while in a care facility, it may be a sign that something is seriously wrong. These injuries are often preventable with proper attention and care. You do not have to face this situation alone. Contact attorney Michael J. Brennan to learn your legal options and take the next step toward protecting your family member’s rights. A consultation is free and completely confidential.