Education and awareness are key to overcoming elder abuse, says Steven C. Peck a california elder law attorney.
Elder abuse has a number of characteristics, Peck says. There is always a power/control issue, it's usually a family member, there may be issues of addiction or mental health, anti-social behaviour and dependancy.
About 70% of the cases we become involved with are financially-related," says Peck.
There are many barriers a victim must overcome before they can feel comfortable discussing an abusive situation. The elders may be afraid of repercussions or being institutionalized, they may feel guilt or shame if it's one of their own children inflicting the elder abuse, and they may be worried about a possible police record for their child. As well, there may be misconceptions that police or social agencies can't help with the situation.
Contact Steven Peck's Premier Legal toll free at 1.866.999.9085 to talk to an experienced elder abuse attorney and visit us on-line at www.premierlegal.org.
