November 29, 2010 – In recent years, a 20% increase in the financial and physical abuse of the elderly has become noticeable nationwide. According to national studies, 3 to 5 million seniors ages 65 or older have become the victims of abuse. Only 1 in 5 cases is actually reported. Elder abuse goes largely unreported simply because so many people fail to recognize when it occurs. In many cases, people are unaware of the possibility of the abuse and do not know that they should even be looking for the signs. More shocking still is that this abuse is just as likely to come from a family member as it is to come from a caregiver in a nursing home setting. Family members are more likely to financially abuse their elderly relatives. According to the director of the Jewish Association for Services for the Aged, this is a trend that may coincide with the recession; people become unemployed and move back in with their parents or grandparents, leeching off of the limited money supply provided to the elder by Social Security. It is important to recognize elder abuse when it is happening, whether the perpetrator is a family member or a professional caregiver.
Signs of elder abuse include:
- physical injuries;
- emotional or behavioral changes;
- a decline in personal hygiene;
- rashes and sores in various stages of healing;
- malnourishment or dehydration;
- untreated medical conditions; and
- sudden changes in financial status.
Anyone who suspects elder abuse or witnesses such abuse in New York is urged to call the Elderly Crime Victims Resource Center by dialing 311, or the toll-free abuse hotline at 1-800-342-3009 (option 6). Nationwide, you can call 1-800-677-1116 for assistance. For emergencies, call 911.
Contacting a New York Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
When you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of the negligence of another, you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York nursing home abuse lawyer can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries and decide if filing a nursing home abuse claim is right for you. At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of nursing home abuse lawyers that serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, defective drug, premises liability and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your nursing home abuse claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
