If you worry that your loved one is at risk of elder abuse, you should look for evidence of physical harm, changes in their behavior, the development of preventable health problems, and changes in banking or spending patterns.
These four signs of elder abuse can indicate that your loved one needs help.
If you believe a loved one has faced abuse or neglect, you should get immediate help from a Los Angeles nursing home abuse lawyer. An attorney can give you information about the steps you should take to protect your loved one and options to seek compensation for the abuse they experienced.
Four Signs of Elder Abuse to Watch Out for if Your Loved One Is at Risk
If you think your loved one is at risk for elder abuse, watch out for these four signs that something is wrong:
Evidence of Physical Harm
You should consider any unexplained injuries as potential red flags for elder abuse. Some common signs of abuse include burns or scars.
You should also stay aware of any physical signs that could indicate a loved one has been put in restraints, like bruises.
Changes in a Loved One’s Behavior
Sudden changes in your loved one’s emotional state can indicate that they’re experiencing abuse.
Victims of neglect or abuse often become anxious or show signs of depression. They may withdraw from activities that they previously enjoyed.
Developing Preventable Health Problems
In some cases, your loved one may develop conditions that would not occur if they received proper medical care. For example, the development of bedsores could indicate that your loved one is experiencing neglect or abuse.
Changes in Financial Behavior
If your loved one makes sudden changes to their spending or banking habits, it could indicate that they’re experiencing a form of financial abuse. If you have any concerns about the treatment of your loved one, you should get help quickly.
What Should You Do if You Notice Signs of Elder Abuse?
If your loved one is at risk of elder abuse and you notice an issue, you should quickly take action. You can reach out to Adult Protective Services (APS) 24/7/365 to get immediate help and advice about your next steps.
Depending on the nature of the abuse, you may need to immediately have your loved one taken to a medical facility for treatment.
You should also reach out to an attorney for help. A lawyer can explain the steps your family should take after identifying abuse and provide the support you need in this challenging time.
(310) 526-8383Do You Need to Prove Elder Abuse?
After you notice signs of elder abuse (or nursing home abuse), you need to work with a lawyer to gather proof that your loved one experienced mistreatment.
An attorney can explain how you prove nursing home abuse, which could involve:
- Getting copies of your loved one’s medical records
- Looking into past complaints against the care facility
- Speaking to witnesses who potentially saw the abuse
- Gathering surveillance footage showing mistreatment
An attorney can take care of the investigation on your behalf, allowing you to focus on providing care and support to your loved one in the aftermath of acts of abuse. You should select an attorney with experience handling elder abuse claims who knows what it takes to successfully gather evidence about these cases.
Can a Loved One Get Compensation for Elder Abuse?
In many cases, you can help a loved one seek compensation for acts of elder abuse. The party responsible for the abuse may need to cover all of your loved one’s losses, including their medical expenses.
For example, your family could get funds to cover a loved one’s:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Time in a hospital
- Medications
- Surgeries and other medical procedures
- Medical diagnostic tests
- Physical therapy and rehabilitative care appointments
Your loved one could also receive compensation for the non-economic effects of abuse, including their emotional distress, mental suffering, and physical pain.
Your lawyer can give you more specific information about the funds available in your situation.
Talk to Us if You Notice Signs of Elder Abuse in California
So, is your loved one at risk for elder abuse? The four signs to watch out for can include unexplained injuries, changes to behavior, the development of preventable ailments, and changes to financial patterns.
If you notice signs of abuse, you can start taking steps to protect your loved one. Our team at Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys can provide the compassionate and professional assistance you need in this situation. We know what it takes to handle elder abuse claims, and we’re ready to discuss your family’s specific situation.
You can count on us to answer your questions, explain the next steps you should take, and stand by you every step of the way. Find out more about how we can help with a risk-free initial consultation.
