Grandparents Day visits can be a good moment to look a little closer, especially if you don't visit as often as you'd like. Nursing home neglect isn't always dramatic or obvious. Some signs are subtle enough that families miss them at first.

Things worth paying attention to:

• Unexplained weight loss or signs of dehydration
• Bedsores or pressure ulcers, especially in residents with limited mobility
• Poor hygiene, unwashed clothing, or an unusually unkempt appearance
• Changes in mood or personality, like withdrawal, fear, or unusual anxiety around certain staff
• Unexplained bruising or injuries, or inconsistent explanations for them
• A decline in the facility itself, such as unanswered call lights, understaffing, or unsanitary conditions

Trust your instincts. Families often sense something is wrong before they can point to specific proof, and that feeling deserves attention rather than dismissal. If a visit this Grandparents Day leaves you uneasy about your loved one's care, it's worth documenting what you noticed and talking to someone who can help you understand your options.