Providing Answers And Help For The Victims Of Elder Abuse

If you believe that you or someone you love is experiencing elder abuse, you probably feel helpless. Fortunately, you are not. You have our legal team at Rencher Law Group, P.C., on your side.

At RLG, our founding attorney, D.L. Rencher, has more than 20 years of experience working with the victims of elder abuse and their family members. In this frightening and confusing time, you can turn to us for answers. To get you started, these are a few of our responses to the questions we frequently hear from our clients.

What are the most common forms of elder abuse?

Elder abuse can take many different forms. Some of the most common forms of elder abuse include:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Psychological or emotional abuse, including intimidation, threats and isolation
• Neglect of an elderly person’s physical or emotional needs
• Financial abuse, in which someone exploits an elderly person for financial gain

Vulnerable older people may experience one form of abuse, or abuse may take several forms.

In which situations are the elderly more likely to be abused?

Shared living situations and reliance on nursing home staff or other caretakers can put elderly people at greater risk of abuse. Conditions that make elderly people mentally or physically unable to care for their own needs can also increase the likelihood of abuse. In addition, if elderly people become isolated from family or friends or have a limited social network, the lack of outside contact may allow abuse to go undetected.

What should I do if I suspect my loved one is being abused, neglected or exploited?

Begin by documenting the suspected elder abuse or neglect. Create a detailed log, including the incidents you have noticed and the dates and times they occurred, if possible. If your loved one still has the ability to communicate verbally or through writing, have a frank discussion with them in which you express your concerns about their situation. Speak with your loved one’s doctor and the management of your loved one’s nursing home or another care facility. Bring your log and any other evidence you may have, including medical records and financial statements.

Where can I report my suspicions of elder abuse?

You have several options for reporting abuse. You can report it to:

• Your local police department
• Your county’s department of Adult Protective Services (APS)
• Your loved one’s doctor
• A trusted staff member on their care team
• The management of the nursing home or another care facility

You should also contact an elder abuse attorney to learn more about your legal options.

Who responds to reports of elder abuse?

No matter where you report your suspicions of abuse, the APS in the county where your loved one resides will step in to respond to the allegations.

How can an attorney assist with an elder abuse case?

Attorneys are a crucial part of any elder abuse or neglect case. They understand how the many administrative and legal processes involved in elder abuse cases work. Because they have many resources and contacts at their disposal, they can use these to help you and your loved one. Perhaps most importantly, they know how to protect the rights of your elderly loved one so they never have to endure abuse again.

Are there criminal penalties for an abuser?

Yes, in many cases. Elder abuse is a serious crime. A conviction can result in up to four years in jail.

Reach Out Now For Help

In this difficult time of your life, you can reach out to us for more answers. Our lawyers have helped thousands of clients in the San Francisco and San Diego areas. You can schedule a completely free in-person or virtual consultation with one of our team members. To reach us, call 877-RENCHER or send us an email.