Elder Abuse and Neglect in San Diego County Nursing Homes and Care Facilities

Elder abuse and neglect is a growing concern in San Diego County, where an increasing number of families are relying on nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and board and care homes to care for aging loved ones. Unfortunately, not all facilities provide the level of care our seniors deserve. When staff members or facility operators fail in their duty of care, the consequences can be devastating.

Under EADACPA (the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act) in California, an elder is defined as:

Any person residing in California who is 65 years of age or older. (Welf. & Inst. Code § 15610.27)

This definition is crucial because it determines who is protected under California's civil elder abuse laws. Elders under this statute are afforded specific legal protections against physical abuse, neglect, abandonment, isolation, financial abuse, and other forms of mistreatment or exploitation.

Any resident of a nursing facility who meets this age threshold and has experienced any form of abuse—whether in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or elsewhere—they may have a legal claim under EADACPA.

If you suspect a loved one has suffered mistreatment, a San Diego elder abuse lawyer from our team is ready to help investigate and hold the responsible parties accountable.

What Is Elder Abuse and Neglect?

Elder abuse and neglect can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial harm. In care facilities, neglect is often more common than overt abuse—but it can be just as dangerous. Neglect occurs when caregivers fail to provide the basic necessities and medical care required to keep a senior safe and healthy.

Examples of neglect in San Diego County facilities include:

  • Untreated bed sores (pressure ulcers): These are preventable injuries that develop when immobile patients aren’t turned regularly. If left untreated, they can become infected and life-threatening. Our firm has handled many bed sore, decubitus ulcer cases.
  • Falls with injuries: Many seniors fall due to lack of supervision, inadequate mobility assistance, or environmental hazards. Fractures, head trauma, and even wrongful death can result. Fall prevention is crucial.
  • Malnutrition and dehydration: Failure to monitor a resident’s food and fluid intake can cause severe health complications, including organ failure and cognitive decline.
  • Failure to respond to changes in condition: When a resident becomes ill or begins showing signs of distress, nursing and facility staff are required to act quickly. Delays in medical attention often result in worsened outcomes or death.
  • Isolation and emotional neglect: Some facilities leave residents confined to their rooms for long periods without interaction, stimulation, or emotional support. This can lead to depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.
  • Poor hygiene and unclean conditions: Failing to keep a resident clean or maintain a sanitary environment can contribute to infections and loss of dignity.
Who Is Responsible for Elder Neglect?

Neglect in care facilities is typically the result of systemic issues like understaffing, poor training, or lack of supervision. But ultimately, it is the facility’s legal duty to ensure that residents are kept safe and that staff are providing proper care. If they fail in that responsibility, they can—and should—be held accountable.

Our San Diego elder abuse attorneys work to uncover how and why the neglect occurred. We gather medical records, consult with experts, and speak with witnesses to build a compelling case on behalf of our clients. Whether the abuse occurred in a skilled nursing facility, residential care home, or assisted living setting, we pursue justice for our elderly clients and their families.

Legal Help for Families Affected By Elder Abuse in San Diego

If your loved one has suffered neglect in a facility in San Diego County—including areas like Oceanside, Escondido, Chula Vista, Carlsbad, or La Mesa—don’t wait to seek help. A San Diego elder abuse lawyer at Southern California Nursing Home Law Group can help you understand your legal rights and options.

We’ve been representing victims of elder abuse and neglect for more than 20 years, and we’re proud of our long history of successful outcomes for clients. We take every case on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. All consultations are 100% free and confidential.

Call Today for a Free Consultation

Elder neglect should never be ignored. If you suspect a loved one has been mistreated in a nursing home or care facility, contact Southern California Nursing Home Law Group to speak with a compassionate elder neglect lawyer in San Diego. We’re here to listen, investigate, and fight for justice.

Call us now to schedule your free consultation. Let’s make sure your loved one’s voice is heard.

 
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Client Reviews
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"Honesty, kindness, and compassion are not words often associated with attorneys, but in this case, they fit perfectly! If you’re looking for an attorney for Assisted Living neglect or abuse, I highly recommend Southern California Nursing Home Law Group." Dan T., Temecula (Riverside County)
★★★★★
"If you have a love one who has been harmed or mistreated in these nursing homes, don't hesitate to get justice. Talk to Southern California Nursing Home Law Group, they will give you loving, friendly service with results." Schavonne & Tisa M., Hawthorne (Los Angeles County)
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"The Southern California Nursing Home Law Group represented a claim for neglect and a claim for wrongful death for our family. We were very satisfied with the successful resolution of the claims." Joseph and Nancy S., Point Loma (San Diego County)
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"My case was handled with professional, compassionate and total attention. We eventually settled out of court for a much higher amount than was originally offered. Thank you Randy, Luke, and Sarah for all your diligent attention to my case." Bayer, El Segundo (Los Angeles County)
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