Concerned That Your Elderly Loved One Is Being Hurt? Here's What You Should Do

Everyone knows how difficult it is to deal with older people who are disabled and cannot take care of themselves anymore. In nursing homes, assisted living facilities and private homes, thousands of cases of elderly abuse and neglect are reported. If you fear that an older person you love has been taken advantage of, the following are important steps to address this problem.

Contact the Managers

If the abuse occurred in a business setting, contact the manager, owner or whoever is in charge of the place. Asking employees is helpful in some situations but not all. Some people are reluctant to give out information about their coworkers for fear of retaliation. Contact the head of the company, and ask for demands in solving this problem.

Review Security Footage

The most reliable evidence is seen on the security footage. People are more suspicious of caretakers who come into their homes than they are of nurses who work in hospitals. Hidden cameras capture all of the action while security cameras deter actions from occurring in the first place.

Contact the Authorities

There are three types of authorities to contact in case of elderly abuse . The first point of contact is the police who will report the incident, perform an investigation and arrest the perpetrators, if any. The second type is an adult protective service that records, investigates and handles cases of elderly abuse. They work with law enforcement agents and news agencies to address the public about recent cases of abuse and provide prevention tips.

Third, contact a nursing home neglect lawyer who may be able to provide compensation for your elderly person's pain and suffering. Many clients do not pay any fees until their case is won. Some lawyers will provide you with a free consultation, as well.

Interview the Elderly Person

The best source of information about this problem should come directly from the elderly person. Interview the person who you believe is being abused and ask the five basic W's, as in what, who, when, where and why. Record the details of your conversations to use as your evidence if a lawyer wants more information.

There are signs to look out for when an elderly person is being abused physically, emotionally or financially. When you know that abuse exists, follow a series of recommended steps to take immediate action. Make sure that you receive the proper justice and compensation for you and your loved one.