Elder Abuse on the Rise in California

Elder Abuse in California has increased 18 percent in the past five years. Experts worry that the soured economy has put vulnerable seniors at greater risk for abuse.
Here is how to recognize some of the signs of physical or financial abuse.

• Unusual bank activity, such as ATM withdrawals when the individual cannot go to the bank.
• Any untreated medical condition.
• Changes in spending patterns, buying unneeded items.
• Checks or other documents signed when the elder cannot write or understand what is being signed.
• Poor hygiene or unkempt and foul-smelling condition.
• Unexplained bruises or welts; injuries that conflict with the explanation.

Without intervention, abuse can escalate. When in doubt about whether abuse has occurred, err on the side of caution and report it. 24 hour abuse hot line (800) 491-7123, (California only).

If you believe a relative or friend has been the victim of elder abuse or nursing home neglect, California elder abuse attorney Steven Weinberg is available to provide a free consultation to answer your questions and explain your legal rights. (888) 321-1022. http://www.sjweinberglaw.com/

What is Elder Abuse?

It is the neglect, exploitation or painful or harmful mistreatment of anyone who is 65 or older. It might be physical violance, psychological abuse, isolation or a caregivers neglect. It could be identity theft, or theft or embezzelment of a seniors property. ( Calif. Penal Code Sec. 368: California Welfare & Institutions Code Sections 15610.23, 1560.27)

Our elderly relatives and friends are the most vulnerable and the most often abused

Every year, tens of thousands of elderly Americans are abused in their own homes, in relatives’ homes, and even in facilities responsible for their care.
As elders become more physically frail, they’re less able to stand up to bullying and or fight back if attacked. They may not see or hear as well or think as clearly as they used to, leaving openings for unscrupulous people to take advantage of them. Mental or physical ailments may make them more trying companions for the people who live with them..
Tens of thousands of seniors across the United States are being abused: harmed in some substantial way often by people who are directly responsible for their care.More than half a million reports of abuse against elderly Americans reach authorities every year, and millions more cases go unreported.
Elder abuse tends to take place where the senior lives: most often in the home where abusers are apt to be adult children; other family members such as grandchildren; or spouses/partners of elders. Institutional settings especially long-term care facilities such as nursing homes can also be sources of elder abuse.
Elder abuse takes many forms; Physical abuse, neglect, emotional abuse and financial abuse.
In the coming weeks I will give specific examples of elder abuse, and tips on how to spot it.
If you believe a friend or loved one has been the victim of elder abuse please contact Steve Weinberg, a California Elder Abuse lawyer. http://www.sjweinberglaw.com/, or call for a free consultation 888-321-1022