The increasing frequency of elder abuse alarms us all. Although some victims may secure justice, we can only imagine the lasting horror and harm that perpetrators cause each elderly victim. Fortunately reports to and response by public agencies and courts also are increasing. A concerned person can report abuse and thereby reduce an elder's pain and loss and possibly end a perpetrator's string of abuses.
Adult Protective Services (APS) and Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs in the State of California receive thousands of reports of elder abuse and neglect each year. Unfortunately, studies show that far more incidences never are reported. As many as half of victims are in situations of self-neglect. When elders are victims of financial, physical or emotional abuse and neglect, very often the suspected abuser is a family member or care provider.
Fortunately, many people in jobs that require confidential reporting of any known elder abuse and neglect which includes physicians, health care workers, clergy, bank staff and individuals who assume responsibility for the care or custody of an elder, do alert APS when they suspect trouble.
Other concerned individuals are also encouraged to report suspected elder abuse and neglect. Their identity remains anonymous and they can even decline to provide their name. If they report in good faith, they are shielded from criminal and civil liability according to the law in the State of California.
Warning signs of financial abuse, for example, include unusual bank account activity, questionable signatures on checks or other documents, unpaid bills, change in spending patterns, and frequently the appearance of someone who ingratiates him- or herself and starts controlling the elder's finances and assets.
Contact Steven Peck's Premier Legal toll free at 1-866-999-9085 to talk to an experienced elder abuse and neglect attorney
