Taking care of your loved ones, especially when they’re no longer able to do so themselves, must not be taken lightly. Asking for professional at-home assistance or considering a nursing home may look like the correct steps, but unfortunately, they may not have your loved one’s best interests in mind.
Elder neglect and abuse are a problem in the United States, and protecting your loved ones isn’t easy. Take these steps to work toward protecting them from elder abuse.
Regular, Frequent Visits
Checking on your loved ones any time you’re available makes them feel better and can help you recognize early signs of elder abuse before severe damage is done. Gather as much information as possible during your visits, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the way they’re treated.
Underlying issues may be difficult to talk about for them, which is why you should stay calm and reassure them that you’re ready to help if something’s wrong. Being prepared to step in is one of the most important steps to take if you want to prevent abuse.
Keep an Eye on Their Finances
One of the most common forms of elder abuse is financial exploitation. Elderly individuals are vulnerable, and it doesn’t take much for a new friend or a caregiver with ill intentions to gain their trust and access their finances. Because of this, you should always check their bank accounts and look for unusual movements.
If you notice large withdrawals, constant visits to an ATM, and unpaid bills, you should step in immediately. Setting up notifications every time someone other than you gains access to their bank accounts or finalizes a transaction will allow you to stop the abuse as soon as it starts.
Choose a Reliable Caregiver
When you hire a caregiver, you’re putting your loved one’s life and physical and mental well-being in their hands. You should take your time before you make your choice, as you don’t want to regret it later. Don’t hesitate to ask questions while conducting interviews, and try to always understand their true intentions. You want to make sure they’re qualified to handle difficult situations.
A criminal background check is a key to spotting past elder abuse. Even personal research can help you spot previous news stories or other issues due to past abuse if the caregiver is a danger.
Taking Further Action
If you notice any signs of exploitation, neglect, or abuse, you need to take further action immediately. Involve your local police department and request an investigation.
If you notice inconsistencies in their finances, contact their bank and ask about your options to stop unauthorized transactions and prevent them from reoccurring. Taking these steps can protect your loved one and provide evidence for their legal claim.
Get Help from an Elder Abuse Attorney
If your loved ones have been suffering because of elder abuse, you have the option to seek compensation for everything they’ve been through.
Our legal consultants at The Kindley Firm, APC, know how much it hurts to see a loved one suffer, and will use their experience to file an effective claim on your behalf. We offer a free consultation, and we’ll make it a priority to find the best course of action for your situation. You can get in touch with us by calling 619-550-1313 or completing the online contact form.
