Elder abuse is just the tip of the iceberg: watching your relatives age is already a difficult experience. This difficult experience can turn into a nightmare when a caregiver you thought trustworthy takes advantage of someone you love.
Elder abuse includes physical and mental abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Elder abuse is a growing problem in this country. According to the Department of Justice, every year, five million Americans are victims of elder abuse. As baby boomers age, the problem is predicted to get significantly worse.
Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice released the Elder Justice Roadmap. The Roadmap compiles research findings from numerous sources and outlines suggestions for combating elder abuse.
Elder abuse is often difficult to recognize because victims are often unaware that they are being abused. Individuals with dementia are particularly vulnerable to abuse by caregivers. The Justice Department estimates that only one in twenty-four cases of elder abuse are reported to authorities.
As a family member, the best thing you can do is to learn the signs of elder abuse. The Red Flags of Abuse Fact Sheet is a free resource published by the National Center on Elder Abuse.
If you suspect a loved one may be a victim of elder abuse, the experienced attorneys at The Cartwright Law Firm can help. We are dedicated to guiding families through the painful process of recovering assets and obtaining justice on behalf of their elders harmed by abuse and neglect. To discuss your options, receive advice, or bring legal action, contact us today for a free consultation.
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