You have seen changes in your elderly family member? Where she was once lively and happy, she now seems withdrawn. You notice that her favorite snacks you brought on your last visit are still unopened, as is the mail you sent her. You also sense she is uncomfortable as she keeps looking towards her caregiver nervously, even though she tells you she is fine. You notice a few bruises she cannot explain. Is this normal? Or is it something far more sinister?
If you suspect elder abuse, immediately report it to Adult Protective Services then contact our Southern California elder abuse lawyer to fight for justice and fair compensation.
Why Call Our Elder Abuse Attorney?
Travis Siegel has been advocating for victims of elder abuse & medical malpractice since 2002
Our Southern California elder abuse attorney was selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2016
Siegel Law has recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients
Elder abuse is sadly very much a reality for many seniors who have to depend on caregivers who control their access to food, water, clothing, and in many ways, their lives.
Do you suspect that a loved one has been mistreated? Act now. Report the abuse to Adult Protective Services and then discuss your options with a trusted legal advocate.
The Rights of the Elderly
The safe and prosperous society we live in today is due, to a great extent, to the heroic actions and sacrifices of our elders. They fought the wars that kept us free and built our cities, towns, and schools. We have an obligation to keep them well cared for and the federal government agrees. In 1987, the Nursing Home Reform Act was passed, establishing a “Resident’s Bill of Rights.” These rights include:
The right to privacy (including phone calls, mail, and conversations)
The right to have medical, physical, psychological, and social needs met
The right to participate in family and resident groups
The right to be treated with dignity
The right to free communication
The right to exercise self-determination
The right to participate in the review of one’s care plan, and to be fully informed in advance about any changes in care, treatment, or change of status in the facility
The right to voice grievances without fear of discrimination or reprisal
These inalienable rights apply to all residents of all senior facilities, including Residential-Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE or assisted living), Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF or nursing homes), group homes, and adult day health care facilities.
Red Flags That May Point to Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is a serious problem that affects hundreds of thousands of elderly individuals across the country. When we entrust an institution or an individual with the care of our loved one, we usually do not think about the potential dangers he or she may face. The reality is, elder abuse can happen to anyone and in any setting. Here are red flags that often point to abuse:
Unexplained bruises, cuts, fractures, welts, burns, or other signs of physical harm
Sexual Abuse
Bruises around the breasts or genital areas
Discovery of sexually transmitted diseases
Difficulty walking or standing up
Social withdrawal
Touchy behavior by caregiver
Bloody or torn clothing
I Suspect Abuse, Now What Do I Do?
Once you have reached the point where you believe that your senior is being abused, you need to take action and you need to do so quickly. If you believe that imminent harm may come to your senior, it is absolutely appropriate and necessary that you call 911 and get the police involved.
If, instead, you believe that there is more chronic abuse going on, report it to California’s Adult Protective Services or your local doctor or hospital. Your observations, insights, and evaluations of the situation will serve as critical evidence in considering the condition of the senior and the actions of the caregivers. Take and be prepared to share detailed notes and make sure you are able to provide all relevant information with the investigating team.
Help from an Advocate Who Cares
As an experienced Southern California elder abuse attorney, Travis Siegel of Siegel Law has been protecting the elderly in our community since 2002. He is personally invested in each case and truly cares about being able to seek justice for his clients. His deep experience, his dedication, and his ability to deliver meaningful results have earned him a reputation as a proven advocate in the field.
When you need Southern California elder abuse lawyer who cares, one who fights for you from beginning to end, turn to Travis and his team by calling and requesting a complimentary consultation.
If your elderly loved one is being abused or mistreated, learn how our attorney can help you. You can reach us by calling (562) 372-6904 or using the form below.
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