Physical Violence

Sacramento Nursing Home Injury Lawyer

Many elderly adults are abused in their own homes, in relatives’ homes and in nursing homes. The courts are seeing more and more assaults, neglect and physical abuse of older people where older Americans can no longer take care of themselves. Of the 281 million Americans, 27% are 50 and older and it’s increasing, making elderly abuse more common. If you or a loved one has suffered from physical abuse, you may be entitled to compensation.

What Is Elder Abuse?

An elder or a dependent adult is someone who is 65 years or older or a dependent adult, who is between 18 and 64 that has certain mental or physical disabilities that keep them from being able to do normal activities or protect themselves. Physical abuse is the use of physical force or violence that causes bodily harm, injury, pain or impairment to the victim. In California, it is considered a crime and punishable by incarceration and fines. If you know someone who is a victim of abuse, contact a skilled Sacramento nursing home injury lawyer who can evaluate the case and represent the victim in court.

Physical abuse can include battery, assault or any unreasonable use of restraint. Due to the nature of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, elderly physical abuse can be difficult to identify so seeking the advice of a lawyer would be a good start.

Types Of Elder Physical Abuse

Elder physical abuse can come from a variety of individuals like caregivers, acquaintances, nurses, doctors, family members or anyone else in contact with the elder. According to the U.S. National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (NCPEA), elder abuse perpetrators are usually unmarried, unemployed, and live with the elderly patient. Some types of elderly abuse are:

• Scratches
• Bites
• Burns
• Hitting, shoving, slapping, or pushing
• Threats or assault with a weapon
• Inappropriate use of restraint

If you are a victim of one of the abuses mentioned above, don’t wait to contact an experienced Sacramento nursing home injury lawyer.

Reporting Elder Abuse

As elders become more physically frail, they are less able to stand up to bullying or fight back if needed. In the U.S., more than half a million reports of abuse reach authorities every year and millions more go unreported. The law says certain types of people must report any elder or dependent adult abuse when they see or suspect it. These people are:

• Anyone who cares for an elderly person, whether at home or in an institution
• Employees of any social service agency
• Health practitioners
• Law enforcement

Even if you are not one of these individuals mentioned above, it’s still best to report any suspicion of elder abuse. Your identity will always be confidential.

Warning Signs Of Elder Physical Abuse

At first, you might not recognize or take seriously signs of elder abuse but it’s important to keep an eye out for some of the warning signs like:

• Frequent arguments or tension between the caregiver and the elderly person
• Changes in personality or behavior in the elder
• Unexplained signs of injury such as bruises, welts or scars
• Broken bones, sprains or dislocations
• Drug overdose or apparent failure to take medication regularly
• Broken eyeglasses or frames
• Signs of being restrained, such as rope marks on wrists
• Caregiver’s refusal to allow you to see the elder alone

If you suspect any of these are occurring, don’t wait to get help. The victim will be entitled to compensation if he or she is being neglected and mistreated. Contact an experienced attorney for help.

Speak With Our Sacramento Nursing Home Injury Lawyer About Elder Abuse

Contact our offices in Folsom or Sacramento to discuss your injuries with a lawyer. We offer a free initial consultation to all new clients. You can reach us by phone at 916-304-0952 or send us an email to schedule an appointment.