Brevard County Elder Abuse Attorneys

A Closer Look at Elder Abuse

According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, there were over 2,500 verified cases of elder abuse or neglect in the state of Florida in 2015. Unfortunately, elder abuse often goes unreported and can continue to escalate if left unchecked.

The abuser can be anyone from a caregiver to a family member. Neglect is the most prevalent type of abuse elders face and refers to the caregiver’s failure to provide basic life necessities. Other types of elder abuse include:

Physical Abuse

Any form of physical force that causes harm to a victim can be considered abuse. Physical abuse may take the form of hitting, shoving, biting, or inappropriate use of restraints.

Emotional Abuse

When a caregiver causes emotional distress to a victim, it is considered abuse. Ridicule, humiliation, and intimidation are all forms of emotional abuse, as well as ignoring an elder or blaming them for something he or she did not do.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual contact with another person. Elderly individuals who experience sexual abuse may be manipulated, coerced, or physically forced into sexual contact.

Financial Abuse

When a caregiver steals money or personal property from an elderly person, this is a form of abuse. Additionally, tricking or pressuring an elder to release valuable financial information or modify a will are considered forms of abuse. Financial abuse often manifests as the direct theft of money, or health care scams.

Abandonment

When a designated caregiver or guardian leaves an elderly individual to care for themselves despite knowing they are unable to do so, this is considered abuse.

Signs of Elder Abuse

There are a variety of signs that can indicate elder abuse. Some of the common indications of abuse include:

• Bruises, welts, and unexplained fractures
• Persistent physical pain or soreness
• Malnutrition or unexplained weight loss
• Dehydration
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Depression or confusion
• Fear, agitation, or withdrawal 
• Unwashed hair and dirty clothes
• Sudden or unexpected changes to wills, trusts, or other financial documents
• Unpaid bills
• Unexplained bank withdrawals or payments

If you see signs of elder abuse, try to determine the cause by speaking to them and to those around them. Our team can help you investigate the situation. 

Seeking Justice 

In cases of elder abuse, both the victim and the family have the right to sue the offending party. Whether the abuse comes from a family member or caregiver at a long-term care facility, we can prove wrongdoing and collect due restitution on your behalf.

Our team at Charpentier Law Firm can investigate the details and build a compelling case. If abuse results in death, we can help you file a wrongful death suit as well. While no amount of money can erase the feelings of pain and betrayal associated with elder abuse, compensation can help you move forward and ensure your loved one receives the level of care they deserve.

Schedule Your Free Brevard County Elder Abuse Consultation Today!

Our Brevard County Elder Abuse Attorneys can protect your loved one's rights and help make certain that justice is served. To book your free case review, call our office at 321-308-8020 or contact us online today.