Did you know that according to the National Center on Elder Abuse, next to family members, medical (non-family) caregivers were the most common perpetrators of abuse among older Americans? Pre-pandemic data reveals that approximately one in 10 Americans age 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse, including physical abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and abandonment.
According to an Orange County elder neglect law firm, there are California laws that are aimed at protecting elderly people from any abuse or neglect. When their rights are violated, the victims may be able to take legal action against care facilities or their abusers.
If you are caring for elderly members of your family, it is important to be able to identify signs of neglect such as deterioration in hygiene, sudden weight loss or gain, and withdrawal from one's emotional state. These signs could indicate a more serious problem.
Common Signs of Elder Neglect
Whenever a loved one is old and requires special attention, a careful observer may start to see signs of neglect and reach the conclusion that there is a lack of care. According to a nursing home overmedication attorney, the elderly often receive incorrect medication or an incorrect dosage of a prescribed medication or are forced to live in unsanitary conditions.
A filthy house may indicate a dirty job or lack of assistance. Because of this, the elderly may become withdrawn or depressed or feel isolated and cut off from society.
One manifestation of neglect is that the elderly choose to spend less and less time with friends or family. Other indications are the assertions of feeling lonely or always being in a bad or sad mood.
Physical Indicators of Neglect
Physical indicators of neglect are sudden weight loss and excessive losses in weight, signifying extreme starvation or dehydration. Dirty body parts may include uncombed hair, dirty clothes, and body odor.
When patients don't regularly bathe or if they are unable to change positions when lying down, they can suffer bedsores or skin infections. The elderly may suffer from severe pain or a deteriorating condition due to neglect.
Another evident sign of neglect is dehydration, often associated with dry mouth or even confusion. It is essential to identify such physical signs since neglect that goes unpunished may lead to serious health complications.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
Besides physical health, neglect can harm an elderly person's emotional and behavioral health.
You might notice the individual sometimes turns out to be withdrawn, anxious, or depressed. In most cases, they are no longer interested in engaging in activities they used to love, showing classical toxic apathy symptoms.
If they isolate themselves or withdraw from social interactions altogether, that will be the first alarm. Recognizing these emotional and behavioral changes is important because it points out when your loved one needs some outside help and support, and time always matters in addressing the situation.
The Role of Legal Professionals in Elder Care
For families figuring out elder care, the involvement of legal professionals becomes mandatory as they guide patients through legal matters such as estate planning, guardianship, and, sometimes, healthcare directives.
Legal professionals protect the rights and wishes of the ones you love, and they can also help recognize and remedy elder abuse or neglect. By having a lawyer, you can make wiser decisions, improve your loved one's well-being, and secure their future.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Neglect
Once you start noticing the signs indicating that a loved one is experiencing neglect, action should be taken immediately. Document everything you see with dates and specific incidents that happened.
Talk to your loved one to get their report of what has happened; they may spill many things that you don't know.
Then inform those in charge of their care, the institution, or the caregiver that offers the services to them. If they don't act on it, then report it to relevant authorities or adult protective services.
Consider an experienced elder law firm to determine if you can take legal action regarding the situation. Such firms will ensure the entire process is fruitful and help in the protection of rights to ensure your loved one gets the care that is deserved.