Recognizing and Reporting Elder Abuse in California
Elder abuse is physical, psychological, or sexual manipulation targeting a senior citizen. The abuser is generally someone who knows the victim. If you are concerned that you or an elder loved one is suffering from abuse, reach out to a lawyer in Los Angeles, California right away. In the United States alone, over half a million reports of elder abuse reach authorities every year, and many more cases go unreported.
Elder abuse tends to occur where the senior lives. It can even take place in institutional settings, particularly long-term care centers, and can be perpetrated by caretakers or fellow residents. Elderly individuals are often abused when loved ones are not around, which makes it more difficult for loved ones to recognize the signs of abuse and stop it from occurring.
What are the Effects of Elder Abuse?
The possible physical and psycho-social effects of the abuse will vary. Extensive research has examined the long-lasting consequences of elder abuse and identified them from those connected to healthy aging. These effects include:
Physical Effects
- Welts, bruises, cuts, dental issues, head injuries, and bedsores;
- Consistent physical pain and discomfort;
- Nutrition and hydration concerns;
- Sleep disruptions;
- Worsening of preexisting health conditions; and
- Increased risks for sudden death.
Psychological Effects
- High levels of distress and anxiety;
- Increased threats that lead to additional stress and anxiety;
- A feeling of helplessness or hopelessness; and
- Signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
How to Prevent Elder Abuse in California
It is difficult to recognize symptoms of elder abuse. Many of its signs and symptoms overlap with symptoms of mental stress, or merely being sick, or aging. Frequent arguments between a caregiver and the senior citizen or drastic personality changes can signal abuse.
Take the following actions to prevent elder abuse from occurring:
- Make frequent, random visits to your family member. Let your loved one know you are a confidante.
- Stay with the elder so the caretaker can have a break– regularly, if possible.
- Monitor your loved one’s medications to make sure the quantities being taken correspond to the prescription dates.
- Look for financial abuse by checking your loved one’s accounts for unauthorized transactions.
- Report abuse without delay.
How to Report Elder Abuse in California
To report abuse that has taken place in a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home or residential care facility, call the corporate office of the facility immediately. Then you will want to file a formal complaint with the local police or the Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse.
If the process above makes you nervous or scared to proceed, contacting an attorney in Los Angeles will help you navigate the murky waters of filing a complaint. He or she will ensure the rights of your loved one are protected throughout the entire process.
Discuss Your Case with a Lawyer in Los Angeles, California
At Deldar Legal, our team of lawyers in Los Angeles, California work tirelessly to make sure families and abuse victims receive the protection and compensation they deserve. You can schedule a free consultation in one of our offices located throughout the state by calling (844) 335-3271 or sending us a message through our request form.
Tagged with: elder abuse, personal injury
Posted in: Personal Injury