How To Spot Elder Abuse And Neglect

The first step in filing a claim against your elder’s abuser is being able to spot the signs of the abuse. While there are many forms of abuse and neglect that can happen under the care of another person, not many people know what signs to look for at a care facility.

At York Law Firm, you can benefit from our elder abuse lawyer’s extensive experience and knowledge of elder abuse law. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area with their elder abuse needs, and we want to take a moment to teach you how to look for signs of abuse in your loved one’s home.

The Causes And Signs Of Abuse And Neglect

Not all abuse comes from the malicious actions of a caretaker. Common causes of abuse include not enough staff working, poorly educated staff, staff members with personal issues and even language barriers. Despite the causes of abuse, there are several signs that can appear in many situations, such as:

• Bruising/bedsores: Dark purple or yellowish patches of skin often indicate bruising, which can come directly from physical abuse or as a result of a fall caused by neglect.
• Malnourishment: If there are not enough staff to ensure your loved one is eating or a caretaker is deliberately withholding food from them, the results can be deadly.
• Poor hygiene: Long, dirty fingernails, unbrushed teeth, body odor and greasy hair may not seem like a sign of abuse, but it may be the telling sign of a caretaker neglecting your loved one.
• Personality changes: If your outgoing elder suddenly does not want to leave their room or if they were previously calm but now are jittery or panicked, it may be the resulting trauma of several forms of abuse.

If you notice these or other warning signs of abuse or neglect, do not dismiss your instincts. No matter how nice a facility seems to be, there is always the potential for abuse. Your job is to keep a vigilant eye out for the signs of abuse, our elder abuse lawyer’s job is to help you seek justice if it happens.

Helping People Recognize Dependent Adult Abuse Throughout Sacramento

When you suspect or recognize the signs of abuse, reaching out to experienced elder abuse attorneys can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case.

York Law Firm is dedicated to protecting nursing home residents and other vulnerable adults who may be experiencing mistreatment. We have a passion for justice and a commitment to holding abusers accountable, helping ensure your loved ones are safe and protected.

Some of the common forms of abuse include:

• Emotional abuse: This involves behaviors that cause distress or mental suffering to a dependent adult. Emotional abuse can include yelling, name-calling, threats, intimidation or deliberately isolating the victim from friends and family. Victims may exhibit signs of depression, anxiety or withdrawal, which can be mistaken for symptoms of aging.
• Financial abuse: This occurs when someone takes advantage of a dependent adult’s finances. It might involve stealing money, manipulating them into changing legal documents or coercing them into financial decisions that serve the abuser’s interests. Such actions can strip victims of their life savings, leaving them vulnerable and without the necessary resources.
• Physical abuse: It includes acts of violence or physical harm, such as hitting, pushing or improper use of restraints. In some cases, neglect, such as failing to provide adequate food, water and medical care, can also be considered a form of physical abuse. Unexplained bruises, cuts or other injuries are red flags.

Each type of abuse has serious consequences, and the signs can be subtle. That is why it is important to act promptly if you notice anything suspicious.

At York Law Firm, we understand how difficult it can be to confront these issues, especially when a loved one is involved. Leverage our knowledge of elder abuse laws to investigate the situation and gather evidence to initiate the appropriate legal action. If you suspect any form of elder abuse, our elder abuse attorneys will stand by your side and fight for justice.

Let Us Defend Your Loved One In Sacramento

Our California team is skilled in supporting those who have loved ones who suffered abuse or neglect. These cases require immediate attention. We can offer the guidance needed through all stages of getting a loved one to a safe place, to filing a claim for the abuse they suffered.

To schedule a free consultation, call 916-643-2200 or contact us online to get started.