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Granada Hills Physical Abuse of the Elderly Lawyers
Our Granada Hills elder physical abuse lawyers are here to help
Physical abuse of the elderly is never okay, and in most cases is a crime. Our Granada Hills elder abuse attorneys are staunch advocates committed to holding wrongdoers accountable. The experienced team at Garcia & Artigliere is dedicated to ensuring that those responsible for such abuse face the consequences. If you or a loved one has been a victim of elder physical abuse, our attorneys are here to provide legal support, fighting fiercely to secure justice and restitution for those who have suffered - contact us today for a confidential consultation.
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What is elder abuse?
Elder abuse is a broad term encompassing any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. It can occur in various settings, and is sadly common in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other residential caretaking facilities.
Elder abuse comes in various forms, often categorized as:
- Physical abuse: Inflicting physical pain or injury, like hitting, pushing, or restraining.
- Neglect: Failing to provide an older adult with basic needs like food, water, shelter, hygiene, or medical care.
- Sexual abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact.
What is elder physical abuse in Granada Hills?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that physical abuse is when an elder experiences illness, pain, injury, functional impairment, distress, or death as a result of the intentional use of physical force and includes acts such as hitting, kicking, pushing, slapping, and burning.
What are the signs of physical abuse in the elderly?
Recognizing signs of physical abuse in the elderly is important for their safety and well-being. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
Unexplained injuries
- Bruises, especially in hidden areas like the inner arms, thighs, or buttocks
- Cuts, scrapes, or burns that seem suspicious or poorly explained
- Broken bones or fractures, particularly if they occur frequently
- Dislocations or sprains
Changes in behavior
- Fear or apprehension around certain caregivers or situations
- Hesitance to talk about their living arrangements or experiences
- Withdrawing from social activities or loved ones
- Depression, anxiety, or sudden changes in mood
Physical indicators
- Poor overall hygiene or unkempt appearance
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
- Difficulty walking or moving around
Medication misuse
- Overmedication or under-medication without explanation
- Confusion or disorientation related to medication changes
Environmental clues
- Restraints or other physical confinement devices used inappropriately
- Unsafe or hazardous living conditions
- Damaged furniture or objects in the living space
Remember, even one of these signs doesn't necessarily mean abuse is happening. However, it's important to be vigilant and investigate further if you have any concerns.
How do I report suspected physical abuse of my elderly loved one in Granada Hills?
To ensure your loved one’s safety, it’s important to report suspected physical abuse as soon as possible. Here's some guidance on how to report such abuse:
- Immediate safety concerns: If your loved one is in immediate danger, experiencing a medical emergency, or requires urgent assistance, call 911 or your local emergency services.
- Adult Protective Services (APS):
- Contact the local Adult Protective Services office, which is responsible for investigating and addressing cases of elder abuse.
- Los Angeles County APS Hotline: 1-877-477-3646 (24/7)
- TDD: 1-800-735-2929 (for hearing-impaired)
- Local law enforcement: Report the suspected abuse to the local law enforcement agency in Granada Hills, which is the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The LAPD Non-Emergency Number is 1-877-ASK-LAPD (1-877-275-5273).
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: If the abuse is occurring in a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (1-800-231-4024).
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH): If the suspected abuse is related to a licensed healthcare facility, file a complaint with the California Department of Public Health. The CDPH Complaint Hotline is 1-800-236-9747.
- Document the abuse: Take notes and document any visible injuries, changes in behavior, or other signs of physical abuse. This documentation may be useful in investigations.
- Seek medical attention: Ensure that your loved one receives prompt medical attention for any injuries sustained. Medical records can serve as additional evidence.
- Follow up: Follow up with the agencies or organizations where you reported the abuse to ensure that appropriate actions are being taken.
Remember, reporting suspected abuse is a critical step in protecting your loved one and preventing further harm. Acting promptly can help ensure that the necessary authorities are informed and can take appropriate action to investigate and address the situation.
Do you have a Granada Hills elder physical 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.
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Granada Hills elder physical abuse lawyers protecting your loved one
If you believe a vulnerable senior citizen is being physically abused, it’s time to take action. Talk to the Granada Hills elder physical abuse attorneys at Garcia & Artigliere today for legal assistance and guidance. We are here to provide support for you and your loved one. To find out your rights to compensation for your injuries and losses, 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.