May 14th, 2025
Paulozzi Joseph

Dehydration and malnutrition in Ohio nursing homes are not just signs of poor care—they are red flags for nursing home neglect and can result in severe, life-threatening harm. When vulnerable residents are not properly monitored, fed, or hydrated, the consequences can include hospitalization, permanent health damage, or even death. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni, we are dedicated to holding negligent nursing homes accountable. If your loved one has suffered due to inadequate food or fluid intake, we can help you pursue justice and compensation. 

In this guide, we break down the causes, warning signs, legal rights, and next steps for families dealing with potential nursing home abuse in Ohio.

What Is Nursing Home Malnutrition and Dehydration?

Malnutrition occurs when a nursing home resident doesn’t receive enough essential nutrients, either due to insufficient food intake or an inability to process nutrients properly. Dehydration happens when a resident loses more fluids than they take in, often due to inadequate monitoring, illness, or mobility issues.

These conditions are common indicators of nursing home negligence—and they are entirely preventable with proper care.

Why Malnutrition and Dehydration Are So Dangerous for Elderly Residents

Elderly residents in long-term care facilities are especially vulnerable to the consequences of poor nutrition and hydration. Left untreated, these issues can lead to:

  • Weakened immune system
  • Increased risk of infections
  • Bedsores and slow healing wounds
  • Muscle atrophy and falls
  • Confusion and cognitive decline
  • Kidney failure or organ shutdown
  • Wrongful death

At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni, we have seen firsthand how devastating these outcomes can be for families—and how often they result from a failure to meet basic standards of care.

Top Causes of Dehydration and Malnutrition in Nursing Homes

Many nursing home abuse cases in Ohio stem from systemic issues within the facility. The most common causes of dehydration and malnutrition include:

  • Understaffing – Too few aides to assist residents with eating, drinking, or monitoring intake.
  • Inadequate Monitoring – Failure to track daily food and fluid consumption over time.
  • Lack of Individualized Care – Ignoring dietary restrictions, medical needs, or known allergies.
  • Unappetizing or Improper Meals – Serving food that is unappealing or nutritionally unbalanced. 
  • Failure to Assist at Mealtimes – Not helping residents who have difficulty feeding themselves.
  • Poor Communication – Lack of coordination between nursing staff, dietitians, and physicians.
  • Medication Mismanagement – Overlooking side effects that suppress appetite or cause fluid loss.

These issues reflect a deeper pattern of neglect that can be grounds for legal action.

Legal Responsibilities of Ohio Nursing Homes

Nursing homes in Ohio are legally obligated under federal and state law to ensure residents receive:

  • Proper nutrition and hydration
  • Individualized dietary plans
  • Adequate assistance during meals
  • Ongoing weight and health monitoring
  • Medical intervention when signs of malnutrition or dehydration appear

Failure to meet these obligations may violate the Nursing Home Reform Act and Ohio Revised Code § 3721.13, which outlines residents’ rights to adequate care.

Can You Sue a Nursing Home for Malnutrition or Dehydration in Ohio?

Yes. If a nursing home’s negligence has caused or contributed to a resident’s serious health decline or death due to malnutrition or dehydration, you may be eligible to file a nursing home neglect lawsuit in Ohio.

At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni, our attorneys will help you pursue compensation for:

These claims require strong evidence, expert medical testimony, and an understanding of elder care standards—resources we provide to every client we represent.

Common Signs of Dehydration and Malnutrition: What Families Should Watch For

It’s critical for family members to recognize early warning signs that a loved one is not receiving adequate care. Symptoms may include:

  • Sudden weight loss
  • Loose, dry, or cracked skin
  • Confusion or unusual drowsiness
  • Weakness or inability to walk
  • Sunken eyes or cheeks
  • Dry mouth and lips
  • Decreased urine output
  • Slow wound healing
  • Bedsores or infections

If your loved one exhibits these symptoms, act immediately—request a full medical evaluation and consult an experienced Ohio nursing home abuse attorney.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect in Ohio

If you believe your loved one is being neglected or suffering from poor care, follow these steps:

  1. Document Everything – Take notes, photos, and keep records of medical changes.
  2. Request Medical Testing – Ask for lab work to check hydration and nutrition levels.
  3. Speak with facility administrators – Raise your concerns and request care plan updates.
  4. File a Formal Complaint – Contact the Ohio Department of Health to report suspected abuse or neglect.
  5. Contact a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer – Legal action can prevent further harm and help your family recover damages.

How Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Helps Nursing Home Neglect Victims

With decades of experience in personal injury and elder abuse law, Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni offers compassionate, knowledgeable, and results-driven representation for families across Ohio. When you work with our team, you get:

  • Free legal consultations to evaluate your case
  • No upfront costs – we work on a contingency fee basis
  • Thorough investigations to uncover neglect and build a strong claim
  • Medical experts and evidence to support your case
  • Aggressive pursuit of compensation from negligent facilities

We serve clients in Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Cincinnati, Toledo, and throughout the state.

Real Accountability Starts With Legal Action

When nursing homes fail to provide even the most basic care—like food and water—they must be held accountable. Filing a legal claim not only secures justice for your family but also helps protect other residents from suffering similar abuse. If your loved one has suffered due to malnutrition or dehydration in a nursing home in Ohio, don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of protecting their health and securing the compensation your family deserves.

At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni, we stand up for the elderly and their families when others let them down. You don’t have to face this situation alone—and you shouldn’t. Contact us to schedule a free consultation or call us today.

 

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