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Understanding the truth about elder abuse can help you stay alert to the signs and symptoms.

Three Common Elder Abuse Myths

Many people believe that elder abuse is something that happens to other people’s families. They may mistakenly believe that it only occurs in low quality nursing homes, or that their loved one isn’t vulnerable to it for a wide variety of other reasons. The reality is that any senior may be a target of elder abuse — and knowing the facts about this type of abuse can help to protect your older loved ones.

As experienced elder abuse attorneys, the legal professionals of PLBH have helped countless families pursue legal claims against nursing homes, assisted living centers and other caregivers. We know firsthand the devastation that can result when a loved one is subjected to physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse. That is why we are dedicated to educating the public on this important topic. Learning to separate fact from fiction when it comes to elder abuse is critical when it comes to understanding this crime.

Myth: Intelligent Elders Are Not Vulnerable to Abuse

Many of us are proud to have been raised by tough, smart parents or other family members. We may rely on that fact to believe that they are not susceptible to elder abuse. However, even the most intelligent senior might still have some age-related decline in mental function that could lead to certain types of elder abuse, such as targeting for financial scams. These types of scams may prey on their emotions, such as by claiming that they need to send money immediately because their grandchild was in an accident. Alternatively, the scam might take advantage of an elder’s lack of familiarity with technology. It pays to be alert when it comes to potential financial elder abuse.

In addition, even the smartest senior will likely have some diminished physical capacity as he or she ages. That may lead to vulnerability to physical and/or sexual abuse. As skilled elder abuse attorneys, we would advise anyone with loved ones in nursing homes or other facilities to be aware of the signs of elder abuse.

Myth: The Law Does Not Protect Seniors

Across the country, including in California, there are laws that specifically forbid elder abuse. These laws prohibit the physical, mental, emotional or financial abuse of persons over the age of 65. Anyone who violates these laws may be subject to criminal penalties, including fines and incarceration. In addition, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit against a person or entity that has engaged in or allowed your loved one to be abused. If you believe that your family member is being abused, you should contact a seasoned elder abuse attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options.

Myth: Financial Elder Abuse Is Uncommon

According to the AARP, one in five elderly Americans are the victims of financial exploitation each year. The total loss is estimated at $3 billion annual, or more than $120,000 per victim. These statistics show that elder financial abuse is a massive and growing problem. Many seniors have accumulated a significant amount of assets over their lifetimes. They may be easier for abusers to target given age-related conditions such as dementia and other health problems that may impact their memory and judgment. If you have an elderly loved one, you should be watchful for any signs of financial abuse.

At PLBH, we work with families to help them seek compensation if their loved one has suffered elder abuse. In some cases, we may not charge a fee unless we recover money for you. Contact us today at (800) 435-7542 or info@plblaw.com to learn more about how we can help, or to schedule a consultation with a skilled elder abuse attorney.