How to Detect Elder Abuse
When it comes to your loved one's health and well-being, it is best to trust your instincts. If something does not seem right, you should contact an experienced lawyer at the California Law Offices of Scott Warmuth as soon as possible to ensure that your loved one does not suffer any further mistreatment and to prevent mistreatment of other senior citizens at the facility.
Physical Signs of Elder Abuse
Some of the signs of elder abuse are obvious. If you see unexplained bruising, it is possible that your loved one has been assaulted by staff or even by other residents at the facility.
Perhaps your loved one's injuries have been explained, but the explanation is not acceptable. Negligence often comes in the form of falls that could have been prevented if your loved one had been properly supervised or bedsores that could have been avoided if your loved one had been properly cared for. Facilities should be held accountable for this type of negligence.
Not All Signs of Elder Abuse Are Obvious
Does your loved one seem uncharacteristically withdrawn? Has he or she stopped talking? Has he or she stopped getting out of bed? These could be signs of mental, physical or even sexual abuse. They could be signs of neglect such as malnutrition and dehydration.
Is the Facility Staffed Properly? Are Care Providers Properly Trained?
If in-home care providers, nursing home or hospital staff are not properly trained, problems can arise. If nursing homes and hospitals are not adequately staffed, something is bound to get overlooked. That something should never be the senior citizens they are paid to care for. Unfortunately, that is often exactly what happens.
Our San Gabriel Valley attorneys take action against these facilities when harm comes to those who rely on them. If you have seen the warning signs of elder abuse, please contact us for a free initial consultation.
