CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Elder Abuse

Understanding Elder Abuse: Types and Signs

Elder abuse is a grave concern that occurs in various settings, from the person’s home to a nursing home. There are several kinds of abuse, including physical, verbal, non-verbal, and financial, that one must recognize to hold the person accountable for committing the crime.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is the intentional act of causing physical harm to an elderly individual. The abuser can use their hand or foot or an object to inflict the pain. Sometimes, the abuse goes unnoticed, either because the victim is too frightened to speak up or because they have been threatened. When there are no visible physical signs, it is challenging to detect the abuse. However, if there are bruises, scratches, or pain when the person is touched, then it could be an indication that abuse has taken place. Other forms of physical abuse include the inappropriate use of drugs and restraints. Nursing home residents often endure such abuse when workers give an excessive amount of medication, making the person excessively drowsy, or when restraints are used to hinder movement.

Verbal and Non-Verbal Abuse

Verbal and non-verbal abuse involve acts that inflict emotional or psychological harm to the person. Verbal abuse, for instance, happens when someone yells, intimidates or ridicules an elderly individual. They may also blame the person for accidents that take place, where the individual is unable to provide personal care without help. Neglect, which is a type of non-verbal abuse, occurs when individuals do not receive basic care or assistance, including food, water or toileting. This scenario is common in nursing homes, where workers leave residents in one position for extended periods without offering snacks, providing care or even bathing them. This could damage the independence and self-worth of the elderly person.

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse concerns the mismanagement or misuse of an elderly individual’s money. Family members, as well as healthcare providers, could take money from the individual or scammed out of their money, without their consent. When someone is responsible for the individual’s money, they may keep the funds instead of using it to purchase essential items like food, clothing, and toiletries. Healthcare workers responsible for managing individual money may also keep some of it for personal gain, instead of spending the entire amount on the individual. This is a severe offense against the elderly, who may not have access to the resources needed to care for themselves or may depend on their life savings for survival.

If you suspect someone has suffered from elderly abuse and need legal assistance, an attorney can help you get compensation for the pain and suffering experienced, as well as initiate punishment for the abuser. The severity of the punishment varies depending on the severity of the abuse, and whether it is a misdemeanor or felony. To strengthen your case, provide your attorney with pictures and documents signed by a doctor. Financial records should also be provided if there are any discrepancies involving the elder’s money. Seeking an attorney’s help will assist in protecting the rights of the elderly, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.

Conclusion

The issue of elder abuse is a global problem that affects individuals across various social and economic strata. However, it is important to recognize the different types of abuse, including physical, verbal, non-verbal, and financial, to prevent or mitigate elder mistreatment. It is also imperative to speak up about the threat of elderly abuse, and seek legal assistance, either as a victim or a family member or friend. Your actions, even the smallest ones, could make a substantial difference in the quality of elderly people’s lives, ensuring they receive the dignity and respect they deserve.