Elder abuse is a serious and grossly underreported issue that affects millions of older adults globally. As the population ages, understanding how to identify and act on elder abuse becomes increasingly important. The Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisors attempt to shed some light on the signs of elder abuse, the steps to take when you suspect abuse, and the resources available for assistance.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect. It can occur in private homes, nursing facilities, and other care environments. Abusers can be family members, caregivers, or others in positions of trust. Sadly, studies show that family members are the most likely perpetrators of elder abuse. Types of elder abuse include:
- Physical Abuse: Inflicting physical pain or injury, such as hitting, slapping, or restraining.
- Emotional Abuse: Causing emotional pain or distress through verbal or non-verbal acts, like intimidation or isolation.
- Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual contact of any kind with an elderly person.
- Financial Abuse: Illegally or improperly using an elder’s funds, property, or assets.
- Neglect: Failing to provide necessary care, leading to harm or distress.
How Do I Identify Elder Abuse?
Recognizing elder abuse is the first critical step towards addressing it. Sometimes the signs of elder abuse are obvious; however, the signs can also be subtle. Consider some common signs of elder abuse:
- Physical Signs:
- Unexplained bruises, burns, or scars.
- Broken bones or sprains.
- Reports of drug overdose or apparent failure to take medication regularly (a prescription has more remaining than it should).
- Emotional and Behavioral Signs:
- Withdrawal from normal activities or sudden changes in alertness.
- Unusual depression or anxiety.
- Strained or tense relationships, frequent arguments between the caregiver and elderly person.
- Sexual Abuse Signs:
- Bruises around the breasts or genital area.
- Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases or infections.
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing.
- Financial Abuse Signs:
- Sudden changes in financial situations.
- Unpaid bills or lack of medical care, although the elder individual has enough money.
- Sudden changes in Wills, financial documents, or property titles.
- Neglect Signs:
- Poor hygiene, bedsores, or other unattended health problems.
- Unsanitary or unsafe living conditions.
- Dehydration, malnutrition, or weight loss.
What to Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse
If you suspect elder abuse, it’s crucial to act promptly to protect the victim and address the situation. Document your observations by keeping a detailed record of the signs and symptoms you observe, including dates and descriptions. This documentation will be crucial when reporting the abuse. If the elder is in immediate danger, call emergency services (911) right away. You can also contact your local Adult Protective Services (APS) office to report your concerns. They are responsible for investigating reports of elder abuse. In cases of physical or sexual abuse, or when financial exploitation involves significant sums of money, contact the police. If the abuse occurs in a nursing home or long-term care facility, report it to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman in your area. You can also offer your support to the elder individual. This can include listening to them, helping them access medical care, or assisting them in finding safe housing as well as encouraging them to consult with professionals such as social workers, doctors, and elder law attorneys who can provide guidance and support in handling the situation.
Resources and Support
Numerous organizations and resources are available to support victims of elder abuse and those who suspect abuse:
- National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA): Provides resources and information on how to report and prevent elder abuse.
- Eldercare Locator: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, connecting you to services for older adults and their families.
- Local Adult Protective Services (APS): Each state has an APS office that investigates reports of elder abuse and neglect.
Do You Suspect Elder Abuse?
For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you suspect that a loved ones is the victim of elder abuse, contact the experienced Los Angeles elder law attorneys at Schomer Estate & Wealth Advisorsby calling (310) 337-7696 to schedule an appointment.
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