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more_legal_areas nursing_homeOnly recently has abuse of the elderly become a nationally recognized problem, and experts agree that it is very difficult to determine the extent to which this abuse occurs, as it remains largely unreported. Abuse of the elderly occurs in hospitals, nursing homes, and other managed care facilities, as well as in personal residences. Like abuse of any population, abuse of the elderly can be physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, or financial. Knowing the signs to watch for and ways to get help can allow the elderly and their loved ones to help stop all manner of abuse of the elderly.
Prevention means knowing what physical marks, changed behaviors, and other signs to look for that might indicate ongoing abuse of the elderly. It is frequently left to loved ones to discover and report any possible abuse of the elderly, as the victims typically suffer in silence, especially as the elderly are at increased risk for social isolation and mental impairment. Warning signs that may be related to abuse of the elderly include: bruises, cuts, breaks or burns (bruising around the breasts or genital areas may indicate sexual abuse of the elderly); unattended medical problems, bedsores, poor hygiene, sudden weight loss; unexplained withdrawal from usual activities, depression, sudden personality changes. Another indication of abuse of the elderly may be found in observing the relationship between the elderly person and the caregiver; conversation may be strained or tense, marked by frequent arguments.
Physical and sexual abuse of the elderly, like such abuse of any other person, is illegal in every state. In many states, special laws pertaining specifically to the abuse of the elderly have been passed, increasing penalties for those who victimize elderly adults. In addition, those responsible for abuse of the elderly can be held civilly liable, and be made to pay for medical treatment and other expenses stemming from their abuse of the elderly, as well as funds for mental anguish, and punitive damages in many cases. Cases involving abuse of the elderly are extremely difficult emotionally for the victims and their loved ones and an attorney who has experience representing cases regarding abuse of the elderly will understand the special circumstances involved and can help victims recover the fullest amount possible.
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