Serving clients throughout PA, NJ, NY, and MD. If your loved one suffered unexplained weight loss, malnutrition, or dehydration in a nursing home, the facility may be legally responsible. Siddons Law Firm reviews malnutrition and dehydration claims. Call (610) 255-7500.
Key Takeaways
- Federal rules require nursing homes to monitor residents’ weight, fluid intake, and nutritional status and intervene when there is decline.
- Unintentional weight loss of 5% in 30 days or 10% in 180 days is a regulatory trigger requiring action.
- Dehydration deaths in nursing homes are rarely natural — they usually indicate understaffing and failure to assist with fluid intake.
- Settlements commonly range from $150,000 to $1.5 million+.
Who May Qualify
- Your loved one lost significant weight or was diagnosed with malnutrition or dehydration while in the facility.
- The facility did not implement or document appropriate dietary and hydration interventions.
- Medical records, weight logs, and lab values document the decline.
Compensation Available
- Medical expenses (hospitalization, IV rehydration, nutritional support)
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages
- Punitive damages for systemic staffing failure
Frequently Asked Questions
My mother had dementia and wouldn’t eat. Is that the facility’s fault?
Facilities are required to develop individualized feeding and nutrition plans for residents with dementia, including hand-feeding assistance and preferred foods. A dementia diagnosis does not excuse nutritional neglect.
What documents matter?
Weight records, intake/output logs, lab values, physician notes, and facility care plans. We obtain these at no cost.
Start Your Malnutrition Case
Call (610) 255-7500 or email msiddons@siddonslaw.com. Serving PA, NJ, NY, and MD.