Basic Facts Everyone Should Know About Elder Abuse
Posted in Accident & Injury on July 17, 2014
As people age, they may become less able to physically defend themselves or stand up to an abusive caregiver. There are more than half a million reports of this each year, and professionals estimate that at least a few more million cases occur annually but are simply not reported. Abuse may come in many forms, including emotional, abusive, and financial, among others. Learn what signs to look for in elderly family members, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. An elder abuse attorney specializes in helping victims who are in situations of mistreatment. If a loved one dies at the hands of an abusive caregiver, the family should seek the guidance of a wrongful death attorney to discuss this difficult situation and learn about the legal rights they may have.
Physical abuse includes all types of assault, such as pushing or shoving but also the inappropriate use of confinement, drugs, or restraints. Emotional abuse occurs when a caregiver causes undue emotional pain or distress to the elderly person through yelling, insulting, or blaming him or her. Isolating the person from friends and family is also considered emotional abuse. These are all signs that may indicate abuse of some type:
- Unexplained signs of injury, such as bruises or cuts
- Broken eyeglasses
- Broken bones, sprains, or dislocations
- Torn or dirty undergarments
- Caregiver denies contact or visitation with others, especially without him or her being present
- Caregiver threatens or belittles the elderly person
- Elderly person rocks or mumbles to himself, much like someone with dementia
If someone you love has been injured due to nursing home neglect or elder abuse, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.