The Tragic Reality Of Elder Abuse
After spending their entire lives ensuring that we have been taken care of, our elderly loved ones deserve nothing but the best in return. When the time comes, as it often does, that they are no longer able to live on their own due to their physical or mental limitations, we are faced with the decision of where they should go to receive the best possible care and attention to their needs. Sometimes we are fortunate enough to be able to have them live with us so that we can make sure they are safe and well cared for; however, that is certainly more the exception than the rule, as in so many cases it is just not possible to provide the level of care they need in our own homes. Families find themselves facing the difficult decision of moving their older relatives and loved ones into nursing homes or other assisted living facilities to ensure they have access to and receive the care they need. Though we try our best to research the options and find the most appropriate facility, we can only hope we have made the right choice. Sadly, elder abuse and nursing home neglect have become more prevalent in recent years, and recognizing the signs of these horrible scenarios has become extremely important.
The Types And Signs Of Elder Abuse And Nursing Home Neglect
Elder abuse can take many different forms, and recognizing the signs of abuse in general is often difficult to do. Several of the different types of elder abuse may include physical, sexual, mental, emotional, and financial abuse and, tragically, it is not at all unusual for a victim to experience more than one type of abuse. Signs of physical abuse may include unexplained bruises, broken bones, marks on the wrist (a sign of having been restrained), and broken eyeglasses. Elder abuse also includes neglect, and various signs of neglect may include untreated physical conditions, uncleanliness, and unsanitary or unsafe living conditions. Signs of financial abuse to watch for may be unexplained changes in the elder’s financial situation, unusual banking activity, ATM withdrawals, and suspicious changes in the elder’s estate planning documents such as their will or power of attorney.
Florida Law And Elder Abuse
It is against the law in Florida, as in many other jurisdictions, or abuse or neglect elders; Florida Code Section 825.102 addresses this very serious matter, defines the crime, and sets forth the specifics regarding classifications for the crime, which depends upon the various factors and specifics of each individual set of circumstances. It is important to note that abuse can result not only from treatment over a period of time but also from just one single act.
Are You Concerned About Elder Abuse? Alan Goldfarb, P.A. Can Help
If you believe your elderly loved one has been abused or neglected at their nursing home or assisted living facility, help is available. The Miami elder abuse attorneys at the office of Alan Goldfarb, P.A. are available to help you understand and explore your legal options if you find yourself in this position. We can help you and your loved one obtain compensation for losses suffered as a result of abuse and neglect they have been subjected to. Contact us now to schedule your free consultation today.
Resource:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0800-0899/0825/Sections/0825.102.html
