Approximately a quarter (26.9%) of staff had observed at least one psychologically abusive act directed towards a resident in the past year — the most frequently observed type of psychological abuse was shouting at a resident in anger (21.1%).

Nursing home neglect occurs when staff members fail to adequately care for residents. Examples include not quickly addressing bedsores, failing to change bedding or adult diapers regularly, and not feeding, bathing, or dressing residents.

Bedridden and severely ill residents are at high risk of nursing home neglect, especially if they live in low-quality or understaffed homes.

• Safeguarding is defined as the protection of a person’s health, wellbeing, and right to live in safety, free from harm, abuse, and neglect.
• The local authority is the lead agency for adult safeguarding and should be notified whenever abuse or neglect is suspected.
• Primary care staff who have regular contact with care home residents are well-placed to identify abuse and neglect in care homes. Each practice should have a GP Safeguarding Lead who can offer advice and guidance.