NO RECOVERY NO FEE Free Case Review
Granada Hills Elder Abuse Lawyers
Help for your loved one from our Granada Hills elder abuse attorneys – since 1993
At Garcia & Artigliere, we recognize the unique challenges faced by seniors and the immense trust placed in caretakers and institutions responsible for their well-being. When this trust is betrayed, and elders suffer physical, emotional, or financial harm, our experienced Granada Hills elder abuse attorneys are here to provide a voice for those who may be unable to speak for themselves. We strive to hold perpetrators responsible and seek rightful compensation for those who have suffered harm. If you suspect or have witnessed elder abuse, our legal team is ready to stand by your side, working tirelessly to bring justice and relief to those who deserve it most - contact us today for a confidential consultation.
NO RECOVERY NO FEE Free Case Review
What constitutes elder abuse?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) call elder abuse an “intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. An older adult is someone aged 60 or older. The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or a person the elder trusts.”
They also note that elder abuse is common, and experienced by about one in every 10 people aged 60 and older who live at home. In fact, over four years, more than 643,000 vulnerable adults were treated in the emergency room for assaults, and over 19,000 homicides even occurred.
What are the signs of elder abuse in Granada Hills?
Elder abuse can manifest in various forms, and recognizing the signs is vital to addressing and preventing harm to older individuals. The signs of elder abuse can be categorized into several different types of abuse:
- Unexplained injuries such as bruises, fractures, or burns
- Signs of restraint or marks indicating the use of restraints
- Sudden weight loss or malnutrition
- Inadequate explanations for injuries
- Poor personal hygiene or living conditions
- Untreated medical conditions or lack of necessary medications
- Dehydration or malnutrition
- Inadequate clothing or living in unsafe conditions
- Signs of physical trauma to the genital area
- Unexplained sexually transmitted infections
- Emotional withdrawal or unusual behavior
Abandonment
- Desertion of the elder by caregivers or family members
- Lack of necessary care and support
Healthcare fraud and abuse
- Overmedication or undermedication
- Billing discrepancies or overcharging for medical services
- Inadequate care in healthcare facilities
It's important to note that these signs on their own may not always indicate abuse, but they should raise concerns and prompt further investigation. If you suspect elder abuse, report it to the appropriate authorities or contact elder abuse hotlines for assistance and intervention.
How can I recognize and prevent elder abuse in Granada Hills?
Understanding the signs of elder abuse is important, but it is also important to be proactive. Here are some steps you can take to recognize and prevent elder abuse:
- Stay connected: Regularly communicate with elderly family members, friends, or neighbors. Isolation is a risk factor for abuse, and maintaining connections can help identify changes in behavior or living conditions.
- Be observant: Pay attention to your loved one’s physical and emotional well-being. Look for signs of unexplained injuries, changes in mood or behavior, poor hygiene, or unusual financial transactions.
- Visit regularly: If possible, visit elderly loved ones in person regularly. This allows you to assess their living conditions, observe their interactions with caregivers, and address any concerns firsthand.
- Educate yourself: Understand the different forms of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect. Be aware of common signs associated with each type of abuse.
- Listen to the elderly: Take their concerns seriously. If they express discomfort or fear, investigate and address the issue promptly.
It’s also important to remember when hiring caregivers or utilizing care facilities, to conduct thorough background checks to ensure the individuals responsible for elder care have a clean record and appropriate qualifications.
How can I report elder abuse in Granada Hills?
If you suspect the abuse of a senior citizen, contact a Granada Hills elder abuse attorney, like those at Garcia & Artigliere, immediately. We can help you with the reporting process as well as provide support during any investigation. We will ensure the rights of your loved one are upheld and that they are legally protected throughout the process.
You can also take advantage of the following services:
- You can report elder abuse in California to Adult Protective Services (APS) by calling 1-833-401-0832 and entering your 5-digit zip code when prompted. APS is a social service program that receives and investigates reports of elder adult maltreatment.
- The Long-Term Care Ombudsman CRISIS line at 1-800-231-4024.
- The California Department of Health Care Services IHSS Fraud Hotline at 1-800-822-6222.
You can also contact the Granada Hills police department at 1-818-832-0633.
Then, contact a Granada Hills elder abuse lawyer from Garcia & Artigliere.
Who is liable for elder abuse?
Here's a general overview of the potential liable parties in a Granada Hills elderly abuse claim:
- Direct abusers: Individuals directly responsible for the abuse, such as family members, caregivers, or staff members, can be held criminally liable and face charges like assault, battery, or neglect. They may also be liable for civil damages in a lawsuit.
- People who fail to report abuse: In some cases, individuals who witness or suspect abuse but fail to report it may be held liable for negligence.
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities: If abuse occurs within their care, they may be held liable for negligence if they fail to provide adequate supervision, training, or background checks for staff.
- Government agencies: If government agencies responsible for protecting vulnerable adults fail to investigate or act on reports of abuse, they may be held liable for negligence.
- Financial institutions: Banks or other financial institutions that assist in or turn a blind eye to financial exploitation of elders may be liable for civil damages.
- Healthcare providers: Doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals who fail to diagnose or report abuse may be liable for negligence.
Do you have a Granada Hills elder abuse attorney near me?
Garcia & Artigliere has offices at 2029 Century Park East, Suite 400, in Los Angeles. We’re located between Constellation Boulevard and W. Olympic Boulevard. We can also arrange video calls or off-site visits if you are unable to travel due to your condition.
Experienced help from Granada Hills elder abuse lawyers
If you suspect or have evidence of elder abuse in Granada Hills, our experienced team of elder abuse attorneys is here to be the voice for those who may be suffering in silence. We understand the gravity of these situations and are dedicated to seeking justice for vulnerable individuals who deserve protection and care. At Garcia & Artigliere, we are committed to being relentless advocates for victims of elder abuse, pursuing the appropriate legal actions to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions. Call our offices or contact us today to set up a free consultation. Garcia & Artigliere has offices in Long Beach and Los Angeles and serve clients throughout California.