Unfortunately, senior citizens can be the victims of elder abuse at the hands of nursing home staff members. Here are a few signs that your elderly loved one or friend may be experiencing elder abuse:
- Physical signs
Every year, an estimated 5 million elderly Americans are abused. Since most cases go unreported, it may be up to you to determine whether or not your elderly friend or loved one is being abused. Next time you visit the nursing home, be sure to casually check him or her for cuts, bruises, or other signs of neglect.
- Emotional signs
It’s very common for victims of abuse to feel guilt, as if they’re somehow to blame for their injuries. If your friend or loved one suffers abuse, he or she may feel ashamed and have trouble admitting it—and as a loving child, you should be able to read that shame and guilt on his or her face. When you do, ask if something is wrong and press the issue until he or she explains what’s happening.
- Financial clues
Since the elderly are relatively weak and easily confused, they’re easy targets for crooked caretakers. A nursing home staff member might convince your parent to pay extra money for services or even directly take your parent’s money. To make sure that nothing strange is going on, it’s important that you keep track of your parent’s finances and talk to him or her about large sums of missing money.
If you suspect that your elderly parent is suffering from abuse, don’t hesitate to contact Shea Law Group. Our friendly and skilled lawyers will hear your case, analyze the evidence, and help you to bring the abusers to justice. Don’t let your elderly loved one suffer the indignity of abuse—call us today at (773) 365-0040.
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