In the United States, elder abuse is an epidemic. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, hundreds of thousands of seniors across the country are subject to abuse, exploitation and neglect. If you have an elderly loved one, it would be in your loved one’s best interests to educate yourself on the different forms of elder abuse and the signs that abuse may be occurring. If you see something suspicious, contact a Des Moines nursing home abuse lawyer.
Elder abuse is not limited to physical violence. It may also include financial, emotional or sexual abuse or involve the absence of required assistance, as in cases of abandonment or neglect — the most frequently witnessed form of abuse in nursing homes.
Sadly, nursing home victims do not always report elder abuse. This may be due to several factors, such as a physical inability or fear of repercussions. Therefore, it is important for family and friends of the elderly to maintain a watchful and vigilant eye.
If you have the slightest feeling that abuse may be occurring, contact an elder abuse lawyer in Iowa. The following are common indicators of elder abuse:
- Abrupt withdrawal from usual activities
- Cuts, burns, bruises or broken bones
- Poor hygiene, bed sores or weight loss
- Changes in finances
At Hope Law Firm, P.L.C., our team has experience representing victims of various forms of elder abuse, including nursing home lawsuits. We use our knowledge of the legal system to hold the abuser accountable and get maximum compensation for your loved one.