Elderly and Nursing Home Abuse in New Castle

Cleveland Elderly and Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

When we place our elderly loved ones in the care of others, we trust they will be treated with compassion and respect. Unfortunately, this is not always the reality. Millions of older Americans experience abuse each year. The perpetrators are often people in positions of trust, such as relatives, friends, caregivers, and even scam artists or government officials.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our team is equipped to handle these delicate situations. If you suspect that you or someone you care about has been a victim of elder abuse, it’s important to act quickly. A qualified New Castle criminal lawyer can provide the guidance you need.

Elder Abuse

Elder abuse refers to any intentional act by a trusted individual, like a relative or caregiver, that causes serious risk or harm to a vulnerable older person. When a family decides to place an elderly member in a nursing home, assisted living, or another elderly care facility, they are entrusting these organizations with their well-being. These facilities and their staff can also be perpetrators of abuse.

The instances of neglect and abuse against the elderly are widespread and can leave a devastating impact on the victim’s mental and emotional state. If you are facing legal trouble related to such a situation, a New Castle DUI lawyer with broad criminal defense experience can be a valuable asset.

Signs of Elder Abuse to Look For

Often, elderly victims may not speak out about the abuse they are enduring due to fear or complex emotional reasons. However, friends, family, and community members can often detect abuse by observing certain warning signs. The following are some key indicators:

• The caregiver prevents the senior from receiving outside help for their finances or other services.
• The health care or social care providers are changed frequently without a clear reason.
• The caregiver isolates the senior from friends, family, and the community.
• There are sudden and unexplained changes to a will, power of attorney, or other financial documents.
• The senior has an unexplained pale complexion or appears unwell.
• The individual is not being fed properly or is denied adequate water, heating, or ventilation. For guidance in complex legal matters, consulting a New Castle criminal lawyer is advisable.
• The senior is deprived of necessary items like dentures, hearing aids, eyeglasses, walkers, or wheelchairs.
• Visible bedsores, skin rashes, or consistently soiled bandages are present.
• Bruises or marks that could indicate the use of restraints.
• Lack of energy, mental confusion, depression, frequent crying, or other forms of emotional distress are observed.
• Sudden and unexplained weight loss occurs.
• The senior appears fearful or anxious around their caregiver.
• There are open wounds, bruises, cuts, or welts on their body.
• The person is dressed in clothing that is inappropriate for the weather conditions.
• Signs of medication mismanagement are present, such as empty pill bottles, expired medicines, or outdated prescriptions.
• Clothing is torn, or personal valuables are broken.
• Unusual or unauthorized activity is noticed in bank accounts or regarding property. Seeking advice from a New Castle criminal lawyer can clarify your legal options.

Bringing a Claim of Elderly or Nursing Home Abuse

A family member, guardian, or concerned loved one can initiate a claim for elderly or nursing home abuse. It is crucial to speak with an experienced Cleveland nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as possible. Prompt action is necessary to address the situation, remove the elderly person from danger, and ensure their protection. This is why you should consult a lawyer with a track record in handling such sensitive cases, as they will understand the complexities and emotional weight of the matter.

Who Can Be Sued?

If the abuse occurred at home under the watch of a caregiver, that individual can be sued. If the elderly person was residing in a nursing home or an assisted living facility in Ohio, a lawsuit could be filed against the business owner and the specific care provider, in addition to the direct abuser. These parties can be held liable for failing in their duty to provide a safe environment and adequate care. If legal issues arise, a skilled New Castle DUI lawyer can offer representation.

If you require an experienced Cleveland nursing home abuse lawyer, contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group at (330) 992-3036. We have successfully managed numerous similar cases and are committed to helping you achieve the best possible resolution for your claim.