Recognize the Signs of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can happen to any senior, in any care program or facility. No matter how carefully your family selected a caregiver or nursing home, you and your family should still be mindful of the potential for elder abuse. If you see any of these signs, take action right away—and call me for help to get justice for your loved one.
Signs of financial abuse:
- Missing jewelry, valuables, or belongings
- Unable to locate credit cards, checkbooks, or financial documents
- Abrupt changes to legal documents like a will or power of attorney
Signs of emotional abuse:
- New or worsening anxiety, stress, fear, or anger
- Your loved one is isolated or apart from family members
- Family member requests not to work with a particular caregiver, but does not explain why
Signs of physical abuse:
- Bruises, bumps, and scrapes that your loved one can’t explain
- Bed sores, dirty linens, and physical neglect
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits (refusing to eat, sleeping all day)
Signs of medical abuse:
- Missing or lost prescription drugs or painkillers
- Caregivers billing for services they are not providing
- Overcharging, double-billing, or false claims against Medicare or Medicaid
The National Institute on Aging records hundreds of thousands of cases of elder abuse every year. Abuse takes many forms, including neglect and exploitation. The NIA says that any abrupt changes in your loved one’s temperament or habits should be brought to their doctor’s attention; sleeping too much or too little, refusing to eat, constant irritability or anxiety, and depression are all common indicators of abuse.
If you see any of these signs, start keeping records of it: what did you see? On what day? Who did you ask for more information from, and what did they say? Your job is to focus on your loved one’s health and safety; my job is to get justice when elder abuse occurs.
Nursing homes, hospice, and other live-in care programs often have their own lawyers on staff. You need someone on your side who can make sure you get the answers, justice, and financial award you and your family deserve.
Your loved one has the right to safety no matter whether they live at home, with you, or in a care facility. Elder abuse can be committed by in-home health aides, nurses, caregivers, hospital or nursing home staff, and others you trust with the wellbeing of your loved one. Don’t let anyone tell you not to find legal representation. If you suspect your loved one has been the victim of elder abuse, call me at 877.944.4373 today.
