Elder Abuse

Unlike the abuse of children, elder abuse is often overlooked. As a society, seniors over the age of sixty tend to become less of a priority, opening them up to neglect, abandonment, isolation, and other physical, mental, and financial abuse by those who have direct or indirect power over their life, health, and finances. As the elderly population grows, so too does abuse.

Although elderly adults who are healthy can be abused in certain ways, the most common abuse is among senior citizens who must rely on others for their daily care and/or are in cognitive decline. The most vulnerable are also those who do not have close family or friends; however, relatives can abuse their elders just as easily as a stranger or person in a position of trust.

Abuse happens in many ways, including:

• Physical Abuse: Inflicting pain or injuries on an elderly adult or restraining them against their will.
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Verbally or non-verbally assaulting an elderly adult that causes fear, distress, or mental anguish.
• Neglect: Intentionally ignoring the physical, emotional, or social needs of an elderly adult.
• Abandonment: Leaving an elderly adult uncapable of their own care alone without necessary assistance.
• Sexual Abuse: Forcing elderly adults to be part of unwanted sexual acts or exploitation.
• Financial Abuse: Stealing from elderly adults through the forging of checks, taking retirement money, using credit cards, and changing wills, trusts, bank records, life insurance policies, and other financial documents without permission.

Abuse will not stop on its own. If you feel an elderly adult in your life is being abused by another family member, an assisted living facility, or nursing home, King Law Firm Attorneys at Law Inc. is ready to strategically litigate for their health and safety. Call us now for a consultation.