Identifying Elder Abuse: Important Steps to Take

It’s not always easy to identify elder abuse, but we all must know the warning signs. Elder abuse can take many different forms, from physical abuse and neglect to financial exploitation and emotional abuse.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about what elder abuse is, possible warning signs of elder abuse, and what you should do if you think someone you know is the victim of this type of abuse.

What is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is defined as “a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person”.

Elder abuse can take many different forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. Unfortunately, elder abuse is all too common – it is estimated that between two and six percent of elders over the age of 60 experience some form of abuse each year.

Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

There are many different warning signs of elder abuse, and it’s important to be aware of them so you can help protect your loved ones. Here are some common warning signs of elder abuse:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or welts on the body
• Sudden changes in financial status or unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts
• Sudden changes in mood or personality
• Isolation from family and friends
• Unusual fearfulness or agitation
• Lack of proper medical care

 

There are, of course, many other signs of elder abuse. If you suspect your loved one is a victim, do not hesitate to further investigate the issue.

Important Steps to Take if You Suspect Elder Abuse

If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, it’s important to take action. Here are some steps you can take:

• Talk to the person you’re concerned about. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you’re concerned about their wellbeing. If they are being abused, they may be too afraid or ashamed to tell anyone what’s going on. Try to be patient and understanding, and let them know that you’re there to help.
• If you think the person is in immediate danger, call 911.
• Contact your local adult protective services agency. They can investigate the situation and provide resources and support.
• Talk to a doctor, dentist, or other medical professional. They can help assess the situation and provide medical care if necessary.
• Get in touch with a lawyer. They can provide information about your legal options and help you protect your rights.

 

Taking timely action against elder abuse can not only save the life of someone you love but can also eliminate other instances of abuse.

How An Elder Abuse Lawyer Can Help

At Gary Crews Law, we are experienced in the area of elder law. If you suspect your loved one is a victim of elder abuse, we can offer valuable insights about their legal rights, elder care planning, and even estate planning options.

We can offer guidance and legal assistance on a variety of issues affecting our elderly population including:

• Elder Abuse
• Elder Care Planning
• Estate Planning
• Wills & Trusts, Living Wills, and Powers of Attorney

 

Taking action if you suspect elder abuse is vital. If you think someone you know is the victim of elder abuse, trust your instincts and take action to help them.

At Gary Crews Law, we are passionate about caring for the elderly individuals in our community. If you have any questions or concerns about elder abuse, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you and your loved ones through this difficult time.