Elder Abuse

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is defined by the United States Department of Health and Human Services as “an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to someone aged 60 years or older.” The National Council on Aging estimates that as many as 5 million older adults are abused each year by caregivers or trusted individuals, and unfortunately, just 1 in 24 victims report their case to local authorities.

When you’re concerned about elder abuse, you need someone you can trust. The Law Offices of Friedman & Throop are a team of experienced elder abuse lawyers in Reno, Nevada. They know that the first step to protecting this vulnerable population is learning how to recognize the types and signs of abuse, including:

Physical abuse: Physical violence, such as hitting, kicking or inappropriately restraining the individual. Signs include frequent, unexplained and/or serious injuries or marks on the body.

Emotional abuse: Verbal threats, shaming, forced isolation and other behaviors that cause fear or inflict psychological harm. Signs include anxiety, depression and declining physical health.

Sexual abuse: Any unwanted or non-consensual sexual contact or harassment. This may coincide with physical or emotional abuse. Signs include injury to the genital area, sexually transmitted diseases and depression or withdrawal.

Financial abuse: Unauthorized or fraudulent use of the elder’s resources, such as money, assets or identity, to benefit another individual. Signs include sudden or unusual financial withdrawals, new/unknown individuals “helping” with banking or estate planning and confusion on the part of the elder.Neglect: Lack of attention to basic needs like water, food, hygiene or medical care. Signs include dehydration, malnutrition, soiled garments, bedsores, infection or otherwise insufficient supervision and treatment.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Elder abuse occurs in both nursing homes and home healthcare settings. If you have questions or suspect you or an elderly loved one has suffered harm as a result of intentional or negligent actions on the part of a caregiver, it is imperative to seek help from an experienced Reno elder abuse lawyer. 

Terry Friedman and Julie Throop have a combined six decades of experience specializing in legal cases involving elder abuse, elder injury and elder neglect in Nevada. They’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure the vulnerable individual is safely removed from the dangerous situation, investigate claims, protect the victim’s rights and seek justice for all.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

When it comes to reporting cases of elder abuse, doing so in a timely manner is crucial. Call Friedman & Throop Law today at 775-322-6500, and let our team of elder abuse lawyers in Reno fight to make sure you or your loved one gets the help and justice that’s deserved.