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Many seniors have to rely on others for help managing the tasks of daily life. Unfortunately, this leaves many older individuals vulnerable to abuse by family members, care workers, and medical staff. Victims of elder abuse may not always be willing or able to talk about their experiences, so loved ones should always be vigilant for signs of elder abuse. If you suspect an older family member is being abused, a personal injury attorney can help. Here’s what you should know about elder abuse.

The Facts About Elder Abuse

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse takes many forms, including neglect, physical mistreatment, and financial exploitation. In some cases, caregivers may strike, shake, or grab a senior they’re caring for, sometimes leaving marks or even breaking bones. In others, negligent facilities don’t have the proper staff available, which means residents don’t always get the care they need. Caregiver neglect can have serious consequences for disabled seniors, ranging from bedsores and dangerous infections to malnutrition and unexplained falls.

Signs of Elder Abuse

personal injury attorneyElders may be afraid to tell family members what’s happening to them, or they may not be able to communicate. If your loved one has undergone a significant personality change, flinches when you approach them, or doesn’t appear clean, they may be suffering from abuse or neglect. Frequent injuries without believable explanations or related medical issues may also indicate abusive conditions. If you’re a caregiver for an elder, periodically examine their bills and expenses to make sure there aren’t any unexplained fees or costs.

What to Do if You Suspect Elder Abuse

If you suspect that your elderly family member is a victim of abuse, discuss your issues with the facility supervisor immediately. They may launch an internal investigation, but you should also consult a personal injury attorney with extensive experience handling elder abuse cases. They’ll help you file a complaint with the authorities, conduct an investigation of their own, and have the skills to file a lawsuit on your family member’s behalf.


 

If you believe your loved one is a victim of elder abuse, the personal injury attorneys at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. will fight to protect their safety and their rights. As one of the oldest, most established law firms in New York’s Hudson Valley, they’ve provided high-quality representation to victims throughout the area for over 130 years. Visit their website for more information on how they can help, and follow them on Facebook for more tips and legal insight. Call (845) 343-3000 to consult with an accomplished personal injury attorney.

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