There are hundreds of thousands of cases of elder abuse and neglect occurring every year.  This is a serious concern for many reasons, but particularly because elderly nursing home residents may not be willing to speak up to report abuse, or may not even realize it is occurring.  It can also be difficult for their families to identify signs of abuse or neglect.

Every state has enacted laws to help protect elders from abuse.  These laws can be complex and difficult to understand, so it is a good idea to speak with an experienced attorney to help you understand what steps you should take to help your loved one who may be suffering from this type of abuse.  The most common form of elder abuse occurs when a caregiver engages in abusive or neglectful actions or omissions.

Elder Abuse and Neglect Concerns in California

Elder abuse and neglect is a sad reality that no one really wants to think about.  However, it is important to be aware of the signs and indicators of elder abuse and neglect, so that you are able to help a loved one suffering from this type of abuse if it is occurring.  Below is a list of the most common types of elder abuse to help you identify it before it becomes too late.

Financial Exploitation:  Elders can be exploited financially when someone who has access to their personal information (typically a caregiver) takes advantage of the individual’s finances by stealing money or property.

Neglect:  Neglect in this instance refers to the absence of necessary care.  An elder is suffering from neglect when their caregiver or nursing home facility does not provide them with medication they need.  Another type of neglect is a caregiver withholding basic needs, such as food, water, and shelter.

Abuse: There are many different forms of abuse that elders may be subjected to.  These types are broken down further below.

• Emotional Abuse – This type of abuse occurs when someone uses tactics such as humiliation, manipulation, yelling, and other intimidation tactics to scare, threaten, or manipulate elders.
• Physical Abuse: Physical abuse happens when an elder is subjected to any form of physical action taken in an effort to hurt them.  Physical abuse can include pushing, restraining, hitting, and shoving.
• Sexual Abuse: Elderly individuals are susceptible to sexual abuse. Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual activity.

The Importance of Reporting Elder Abuse

It is vital for you to recognize the signs and indicators of elder abuse and neglect if you have any family members or other loved ones who are elderly.  With the tools to assess whether elder abuse or neglect is occurring, you may be able to report it in time to spare an elder physical and emotional trauma.  Your swift action may even save a life.

If you have concerns that anyone you know might be experiencing elder abuse or neglect, you should consider reporting the abuse to Adult Protection Services.  Another step you may want to take is to contact an elder abuse attorney in Sacramento.  Contact the Peck Law Group today to speak with an attorney regarding your suspicions.  Our attorneys are experienced in the area of elder law and may be able to help you pursue compensation.  Call us today at 866-999-9085.