Protecting seniors from abuse is extremely important especially due to the rise in elder abuse cases. Elder abuse often goes unreported due to unfamiliarity with the topic. Seniors also do not disclose details of the abuse to others. There are many reasons why senior citizens do not feel comfortable reporting the abuse they or someone they know are facing. In addition, often times seniors feel retaliation if they report the abuse they are experiencing. It is important to check in with the senior as frequently as possible. If you are unable to check in with the elderly individual you will want to insure they are receiving the assistance and support they need. For instance, you may want to notify the senior of elderly support groups or community events to keep them from being isolated.
Protecting Seniors from Abuse
The different types of abuse elderly individuals face range from physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse and neglect. When attempting to identify physical abuse you will want to look for marking on the elderly individual. The most common marks you may notice are red marks, scratches, or bruises. In addition, if you would like to identify emotional abuse you will want to observe the senior citizen while they are around the caregiver. Signs to watch for are if the senior appears to be timid or fear the care giver. Moreover, if you notice there is tension or unusual behavior this may be a further indication of abuse. Additionally, financial elder abuse is becoming more prominent within this vulnerable population. Some ways the seniors are made a victim of financial abuse is by entrusting their financial decisions to others when their health declines. Often times those that commit elder financial abuse tell the senior that they are going to help them stay on top of their finances. It is important that we educate the community and family members of the elderly individual on how to identify elder abuse and ways to report the abuse.
For further information regarding elder law or elder abuse please contact your local attorney. Please call 714-971-8000 for your free initial consultation. We look forward to assisting you with your elder law matter!
