When the topic of elder abuse is introduced, physical wrongdoings are often the first thing to come to mind. However, abuse comes in several different forms and levels of severity. Emotional and physical abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation are common varieties that afflict the elderly. However, due to recent advances in elder law, these victims are protected under various state acts, and don’t have to suffer in silence any longer. Neglect happens when a caregiver fails to provide the following; personal hygiene, water, food, and medicine for an elder to survive and live a healthy life. If you think a caregiver is neglecting your loved one, then you need to contact an elder neglect attorney. This type of lawyer specializes in elder law and is willing to give a voice to your loved one.
Attorneys Can Help
Elder neglect attorneys can help and offer their expert advice when you come to them. When consulting with an elder neglect attorney about your suspicions of your loved one being neglected or abused, it is important that you inform them of everything you have seen or found. This will also include any records that you may have. Once the lawyer has all the information they need they will review your claim and depending on certain circumstances the attorney may acquire an outside source to look over your case as well. After reviewing your case a legal advisor will contact you and let you know if they will take the case or not.
How Can You Tell if Your Loved One Needs Help
The symptoms and signs of this prevalent form of abuse include, but aren’t limited to poor personal hygiene, multiple falls, bedsores, dehydration, malnutrition, and extreme weight loss. Other signs can be found within the environment in which your loved one resides such as unsafe and unsanitary living conditions, soiled bedding, and bugs or other pests. If you notice any of these symptoms and signs around your loved one, talk to them as soon as possible so you can find the source of the negligence.