When you choose a nursing home for your loved one, you expect professional care and a safe, respectful environment. But if you suspect something is wrong, you need to know how to report nursing home abuse in Wisconsin. Speaking up protects your loved one and helps prevent further harm to others in the facility.
Recognizing the Signs of Abuse or Neglect
Nursing home residents are often vulnerable due to age, disability, or cognitive decline. Abuse in these facilities can go unnoticed if loved ones don’t know what to look for, and residents cannot speak up for themselves. That’s why it’s so important to remain observant and proactive.
Some red flags that may indicate nursing home abuse or neglect include:
- Bruises, lacerations, or broken bones, especially with no plausible explanation;
- Bedsores or other preventable injuries;
- Poor hygiene, including soiled clothing, dirty bedding, or strong odors;
- Emotional withdrawal, fearfulness, or anxiety around staff;
- Sudden weight loss or signs of malnutrition or dehydration;
- Missed medications, untreated illnesses, or worsening medical conditions; and
- Missing money or personal items that may suggest financial exploitation.
If you see or suspect any of these issues, begin documenting them immediately. Take photos, write down details, and keep records of staff interactions. Your documentation will help strengthen your case when you report nursing home neglect in Wisconsin.
How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has several systems in place to protect long-term care residents and investigate reports of abuse and neglect. Whether your concern is recent or ongoing, here’s how to take the proper steps.
1. Voice Concerns with the Facility Administrator
In non-urgent cases, consider speaking directly with the nursing home administrator. Describe what you’ve observed and submit a written complaint requesting a formal response. This step can sometimes lead to a quick resolution, but if they ignore your concern or the problem persists, escalate the matter right away.
2. File a Report with Wisconsin Adult Protective Services (APS)
Adult Protective Services investigates abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation involving vulnerable adults, including nursing home residents. To report suspected nursing home abuse or neglect, contact APS through your county’s human services or social services department or by calling the statewide elder abuse hotline at 1-833-586-0107.
Reports can be made anonymously. APS will determine whether to investigate or refer the case to another appropriate agency.
3. Submit a Complaint to the Wisconsin Division of Quality Assurance (DQA)
The Division of Quality Assurance, part of the Department of Health Services (DHS), oversees the licensing and regulation of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. If your concern involves facility standards, health violations, or unsafe conditions, file a complaint by calling 1-800-642-6552 or emailing dhswebmaildqa@dhs.wisconsin.gov.
The DQA is responsible for conducting investigations and taking corrective action if violations are found.
4. Contact the Wisconsin Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
The Ombudsman Program, operated by the Board on Aging and Long Term Care, advocates for residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other long-term care settings. Ombudsmen handle complaints, mediate issues with facility staff, and ensure residents’ rights are respected.
If you need help navigating the complaint process or don’t feel comfortable confronting the facility yourself, call 1-800-815-0015 to request help from an ombudsman.
5. Involve Local Law Enforcement When Necessary
If you suspect a crime has occurred, such as physical or sexual assault, contact your local police department. In emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency situations, file a report with the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Law enforcement may conduct a criminal investigation while APS or DQA investigates regulatory or civil violations.
What to Include in Your Report
Whether you’re reporting nursing home abuse in Wisconsin to APS, DQA, or another authority, be as specific and thorough as possible. A complete report should include:
- The name and location of the facility;
- The name of the resident at risk;
- A description of what occurred, with dates, times, and names of any involved staff;
- Photos, medical records, or witness statements, if available; and
- Your contact information, unless you prefer to report anonymously.
Keeping your own records of what you submitted and when can help you track the investigation and support any follow-up actions.
Need Help to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Wisconsin?
At Senior Justice Law Firm, we focus exclusively on elder abuse and nursing home negligence cases. If your loved one has been harmed in a Wisconsin nursing home or assisted living facility, we can help you navigate the reporting process and pursue justice.
If you’re unsure how to report elder abuse in Wisconsin or are ready to take legal action, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to stand with you and fight for what your loved one deserves.
