Every year, there are thousands of seniors who are victims of neglect and abuse by a trusted caregiver, family member, or nursing home staff member. These terrible acts are committed against people who often cannot defend themselves. Many of them are experiencing mental and physical ailments that prevent them from being able to tell anyone what is happening. There are many different types of elder abuse. Some older adults are neglected and others are physically, mentally, or sexually abused. All forms of abuse are harmful and should be reported immediately if discovered. Attorneys who specialize in elder abuse should be contacted so they can address the situation.
Older adults who experience dementia are often unable to care for themselves. Little by little they stop doing things that they could once do. They often wander to the point where they can no longer prepare their own meals, go to the bathroom on their own, and forget to do things like take a bath or brush their teeth. It is the caregiver’s responsibility to ensure that all of the older person’s basic needs are met. If a caregiver does not make sure the older person is eating nutritious food, it can cause health problems. If the older adult does not bathe regularly and does not go to the bathroom often, it can lead to serious sores and infections. Failing to make sure these things happen is considered neglect, which is one of the types of elder abuse, and it is a terrible crime.
One of the saddest things about dementia is the behavioral changes that accompany it. People suffering from dementia will often display strange and inappropriate behavior. This does not grant a caregiver license to abuse the elder. Physical violence is not an acceptable method of controlling behavior. Physical abuse is one of the most common types of elder abuse, and the danger it presents makes it particularly important to contact an elder abuse attorney. Mental and emotional abuse is also a cause for serious concern. Verbally demeaning or threatening an older adult can cause emotional trauma. Sexually taking advantage of an older adult is also degrading, harmful and is punishable by law. Elder abuse attorneys can help prosecute people who are guilty of committing these types of crimes.
Family, friends, and loved ones must constantly look out for the well-being of the older adults in their lives. If someone begins to notice signs that one of the types of elder abuse is occurring, they should report it immediately. It is important to speak for people who cannot speak for themselves and to make sure they are well cared for. Call on elder abuse attorneys to fight for victims’ rights.