If your loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, they may be a victim of elder abuse.
Senior citizens now make up the largest segment of our population. Thanks to improved nutrition and healthcare, people are living longer. That means that there are many older Americans who need care, whether that is at home with a caregiver, at an assisted living facility, or in a nursing home. This presents a situation that can possibly result in elder abuse. While we all want our loved ones to receive excellent and compassionate care, sadly, that is not always the case. Unfortunately, there are many instances of elder abuse. Here are the facts that you need to know.
Types of Abuse
The most obvious kind of elder abuse is physical where a person’s body shows the evidence of abuse. However, there are other forms of elder abuse that are very harmful. They can take the form of verbal or emotional mistreatment. Some examples of elder abuse include:
- Using physical restraints
- Problems with medication: overmedicating or not providing necessary medication
- Food problems: not providing enough food or force feeding
- Falls or injuries due to inattention or neglect
- Keeping patients in isolation
- Threats or verbal attacks
- Unwanted physical contact
- Assault
Elder abuse is devastating. Senior citizens may be physically harmed by being mistreated and their health can deteriorate due to dehydration, poor or inadequate nutrition, or not receiving proper medication. Emotional damage also results from this situation. Those who suffer from elder abuse may be confused, depressed, frightened, or anxious.
Signs and Symptoms
If your loved one is suffering from elder abuse, you will most likely notice the signs that something is wrong. They include:
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
- Poor hygiene
- Bruises
- Being fearful, frightened, or confused
Take Action
Elder abuse is unacceptable at every level. If you think something is wrong, it probably is. It is your responsibility to make sure that your loved one receives the best possible care and is not subjected to any form of elder abuse. You cannot be with them at all times, so you may need help from a professional to determine the extent of the problem and what can be done about it.
If Someone You Love Is a Victim of Elder Abuse, Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts settlements*. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google +, and LinkedIn.