As our loved ones age, it’s essential to ensure they receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve. Unfortunately, elder abuse is a serious and growing issue that often goes undetected. Recognizing the signs of abuse is crucial to protecting your elderly family members. If you suspect abuse, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Reuter Corbett offers expert legal support to help families stop abuse, seek justice, and protect vulnerable loved ones.
What Is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse involves any act that causes harm or distress to an older vulnerable adult, whether intentional or due to negligence. Abuse can take many forms— financial, physical, emotional, and even neglect. Sadly, the perpetrators of elder abuse are often individuals entrusted with the elder’s care, such as family members, caregivers, or nursing home staff.
Common Types of Elder Abuse
- Financial Exploitation:
- Signs: Unusual bank withdrawals, missing possessions, unpaid bills, or sudden changes to a will.
- Example: Someone coerces the elderly person into giving money or assets or takes advantage of them through fraud, manipulation or undue influence.
- Physical Abuse:
- Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, broken bones, or sudden changes in behavior.
- Example: A caregiver uses unnecessary force to restrain or move the elderly person, causing injury.
- Emotional or Psychological Abuse:
- Signs: Withdrawal from social activities, fearfulness, anxiety, or depression.
- Example: A family member regularly insults, isolates, or intimidates the elderly person.
- Neglect:
- Signs: Malnutrition, dehydration, poor hygiene, or untreated medical conditions.
- Example: A caregiver fails to provide necessary food, medicine, or care, resulting in deteriorating health.
Recognizing these signs early is key to preventing further harm. If you notice anything suspicious, take immediate steps to address the issue.
What to Do if You Suspect Elder Abuse
If you suspect that a loved one is being abused, it’s important to act quickly.
- Document the Signs: Take detailed notes or photographs of any injuries or suspicious behavior. Keep records of financial transactions if financial abuse is suspected.
- Report to Authorities: Contact your state’s Adult Protective Services (APS) or law enforcement. APS can investigate the situation and take appropriate action.
- Seek Medical Care: If there are physical injuries or signs of neglect, take decisive steps to ensure the elderly person receives medical attention.
Addressing abuse quickly can prevent further harm, but these cases can be emotionally and legally complex, especially when caregivers or institutions are involved.
Reuter Corbett is Here to Help
Navigating elder abuse cases requires expert legal knowledge and a compassionate approach. At Reuter Corbett, we provide the support families need to stop abuse, hold abusers accountable, and protect vulnerable loved ones. Here’s how we can help:
- Legal Intervention:
We assist families in obtaining restraining orders or guardianships to ensure the elderly person’s safety. - Investigation and Litigation:
We conduct thorough investigations and pursue litigation to hold the responsible parties accountable. - Financial Recovery:
In cases of financial exploitation, we work to recover stolen assets and ensure the elderly person’s financial stability moving forward. - Ongoing Support:
We understand that elder abuse cases can be emotionally draining. Our team offers personalized guidance and advocacy every step of the way, ensuring your loved one is protected and cared for.
Final Thoughts
Elder abuse can be difficult to detect, but by recognizing the signs and acting quickly, you can make a significant difference in the life of a loved one. If you suspect abuse, don’t wait—take action to protect them from further harm.
At Reuter Corbett, we are committed to helping families navigate these challenging situations with skill and compassion. Our legal experts in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho are ready to help you stop the abuse, hold wrongdoers accountable, and ensure your loved one’s safety. Contact Reuter Corbett today to learn how we can assist in protecting your family and seeking justice.
