Spotting Signs Of Elder Abuse In Alabama
Elder abuse is one of the most insidious forms of mistreatment, and can take many different forms. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that during the COVID-19 pandemic, roughly 1 of every 5 elders reported some kind of abuse, and it is estimated that only 1 in 24 cases are reported.
If you suspect that your elderly loved one has become a victim of abuse, it is crucial that you enlist legal help to act quickly and decisively to protect them. The Birmingham elder abuse attorneys from Goldasich, Vick & Fulk have handled many of these cases and will work hard to protect your loved one from treatment they do not deserve. We are here to help.
How Does This Happen?
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population of elderly Alabamians (over the age of 65) at around 18 percent, slightly lower than its neighbor Florida at 22 percent. These people are our friends and family – but they are also generally more vulnerable than younger people are. While certainly not everyone is out to take advantage of anyone else, it is a sad fact that the elderly and children experience the lion’s share of abuse simply because they cannot fight back as effectively in most cases.
In addition, unintentional ignorance can sometimes work in favor of an abuser because the myths surrounding elder abuse can hide the reality of what is happening. For example, most people associate the term ‘abuse’ with physical or specifically sexual harm to another person – but abuse can be emotional or financial as well, or may manifest as neglect.
Information Is Key
While every person is different, perhaps the most obvious sign of abuse is a significant change in the behavior of the alleged victim. If a confident person suddenly becomes shy or withdrawn, or if a calm person suddenly starts lashing out, this can be a sign that they are being mistreated by a family member or a carer. However, there can be more subtle indicators as well, such as constant seeking of reassurance.
Sometimes, the signs of abuse are more obvious – visible injuries with no explanation, preventable health issues like bedsores, or abrupt changes to estate planning documents. Even these, however, can sometimes be explained away. The most important thing in cases where abuse is suspected is for you to be a safe person for the alleged victim – and to have the right legal help on your side to help them if they truly are in need.
Don’t Face This Alone
Abuse can be a life-shattering experience that no one deserves to go through. If this has happened to your loved one, you need the right Birmingham elder abuse attorneys to ensure that they are properly protected and that they get the justice and closure they – and your whole family – deserve. Contact Goldasich, Vick & Fulk today at (205) 731-2566 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-elder-abuse/
