Elder abuse happens far too often, even in Oakland. Vulnerable seniors who depend on others for care are easy targets for mistreatment. At Arias Sanguinetti, we stand up for those who cannot defend themselves. If you need an Oakland elder abuse lawyer, we are here to help.
If you suspect or witness abuse, it’s important to act quickly. After reporting the situation to authorities, contact our Oakland personal injury lawyers to protect your loved one’s rights.
Our team has held countless institutions and individuals accountable, recovering over $1.5 billion in damages for our clients to help them recover from the harm they’ve suffered. We are committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. Contact Arias Sanguinetti today to learn more.
Understanding Different Types of Elder Abuse
Some individuals prey on older people, taking advantage of those least able to protect themselves. Elder abuse can take many forms, all of which are unacceptable.
Under California’s Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA) and other statutes, victims are protected – our team of attorneys is here to help. Below are common types of elder abuse:
- Financial abuse: This often takes the form of scams coming from other countries. Banks have a responsibility to prevent such abuses. Also, misusing credit cards, checks, or bank accounts; stealing cash or valuables; forging signatures qualify.
- Sexual abuse: Unwanted sexual contact of any kind, including harassment or assault.
- Neglect: Failing to provide food, water, hygiene, shelter, medical care, or protection from hazards, either intentionally or unintentionally. This often results in pressure sores.
- Emotional or psychological abuse: Using intimidation, verbal threats, isolation, humiliation, or ridicule to cause mental anguish.
- Abandonment: Leaving an older adult without care, medical attention, or the support they need.
- Physical abuse: Using force that results in pain or injury, including hitting, shoving, kicking, burning, restraining, overmedicating, or withholding food.
If you or someone you love has been affected by any form of elder abuse, contact our team of lawyers today. We are here to fight for justice and protect the vulnerable.
How Can You Show Proof of Elder Abuse in Oakland?
Proving elder abuse can be challenging because seniors are often frail or experience cognitive decline, making them more prone to accidents or injuries. Medications can also contribute to falls or bruising.
While these incidents may not always indicate abuse, they are red flags that should be carefully observed and documented. An Oakland elder abuse attorney from Arias Sanguinetti can help you gather and present evidence to protect your loved one.
Here are some signs to look for when attempting to prove elder abuse:
- Unexplained physical trauma such as bruising, abrasions, cuts, or burns
- Broken bones, sprains, or dislocations
- Behavioral changes like confusion, depression, or withdrawal
- Sudden financial changes, such as large withdrawals or new patterns of spending
- Suspicious alterations to wills or other financial documents
- Signs of neglect, including poor hygiene, bedsores, or malnutrition
- Negative reactions to physical contact or visible fear around caregivers
- Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions
If you suspect elder abuse, closely watch your loved one’s behavior, especially around their caregiver. Signs like flinching, cowering, or heated arguments can indicate mistreatment.
Document physical injuries with photos, keep detailed notes, and write down anything your loved one shares with you. If a caregiver refuses private visits, this could be a red flag. Thorough evidence is essential to protecting your loved one and holding abusers accountable.
Oakland Elder Abuse Lawyer Near Me 310-844-9696
Common Perpetrators of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is often committed by those in trusted roles, such as caregivers, nursing home staff, or home health aides. Friends, family members, and even strangers with unsupervised access to the victim can also be responsible.
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of abuse. Caregivers who are financially dependent on your loved one, lack proper training, or struggle with substance abuse or mental health issues are often more prone to abusive behavior.
If you suspect mistreatment of a loved one, an elder abuse attorney in Oakland can help protect their rights and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
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Preventing Elder Abuse in Oakland
Choosing care for your elderly loved one requires careful consideration. Before deciding on a nursing home or care facility:
- Visit the facility in person to observe how staff interact with residents and each other.
- Research the facility’s history for any violations or citations that raise concerns.
- Read reviews from other families to understand their experiences with the facility.
Once your loved one is in a care setting, regular involvement is essential. Stay in contact and visit frequently to monitor their well-being and notice any changes that might indicate mistreatment.
If you suspect abuse or neglect, our elder abuse attorneys in Oakland can help you take the necessary steps to protect your loved one and hold those responsible accountable.
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What to Do if You Discover Elder Abuse
If you learn that a loved one is experiencing elder abuse, it’s important to act quickly to protect them. Start by relocating them to a safe environment where they are no longer at risk. Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities, such as the Oakland Police Department, nursing home management, or your local ombudsman program.
After ensuring your loved one’s immediate safety, arrange for any necessary medical care or counseling to help them recover physically and emotionally. These steps can be essential for their well-being and recovery.
Finally, contact our Oakland elder abuse attorneys to discuss the situation. Your family may have the right to seek legal action and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
How Our Oakland Elder Abuse Lawyers Can Help
At Arias Sanguinetti, we know how difficult it is to discover that your loved one is being abused. With over 300 years of combined experience, an Oakland elder abuse lawyer from our team is here to help protect your loved one and hold abusers accountable.
Elder abuse demands action, and Arias Sanguinetti is here to provide the support you need. Whether it’s addressing physical, emotional, or financial abuse, we work tirelessly to seek justice for victims and their families. Your loved one’s safety and well-being are our priority.
When you choose Arias Sanguinetti, you’re choosing a team that stands for Justice. Accountability. Results. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward protecting your loved one.
Call or text 310-844-9696 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
