Has Your Loved One Been A Victim of Elder Abuse In Rhode Island?
An incredibly sobering statistic shows that upwards of 500,000 people are victims of elder abuse every single year. Many of these abuse situations happen at the hands of a relative or someone close to the individual. It is already hard enough to leave a loved one in the care of someone else, but it is absolutely heartbreaking to think that they might be the victim of abuse or neglect. If you suspect this may be the case, you should contact an experienced Elder Abuse Attorney as soon as possible.
Common Signs of Elder Abuse
- Dehydration
- Unexplained bruises
- Infections
- Malnutrition
- Emotionally upset or agitated behavior
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Bed sores
- Unusual and sudden changes in behavior
Any of these warning signs might be an indication of neglect, physical abuse, financial abuse, or emotional and verbal abuse. Understanding and learning how to recognize the signs is the first step in protecting your loved ones.
Who is liable for elder abuse?
Depending on who is responsible for caring for the individual, as well as who is responsible for their affairs, multiple people may be held responsible if someone suffers from elder abuse. If they are under full-time care, then it is most likely that the person or facility whose care they are under will be responsible. It is an unfortunate fact to keep in mind, that family members are the most likely perpetrators of elder abuse.
What should you do if you suspect elder abuse?
While every elder abuse case is different, the initial response to discovering abuse or neglect is critical. This is mostly relevant to physical abuse, however documenting everything you can about emotional or financial abuse is critical as well.
- Call law enforcement. Law enforcement’s response to an incident of abuse provides an independent source of evidence that can be critical in resolving your case. In addition to calling law enforcement to help source evidence, it is crucial to immediately seek medical assistance for any serious or life-threatening injuries.
- Collect information. Do not allow any parties involved to leave the scene without first getting a full name, phone number, and other contact information. Get the names of superiours and all staff that may have had contact with the victim.
- Identify evidence. Take photographs right away of any visible injuries. If possible, also take photographs of the location where the incident occurred. These pictures will help to visually outline the events leading up to, and the damage caused by the abuse.
- Find witnesses. If anyone was present during the abuse or neglect, get their name, phone number, and address and make sure to email them to yourself right away. A photograph of an ID can also be helpful, particularly if your attorney needs to compel them to answer.
What is the most common type of elder abuse?
The most common type of elder abuse is emotional or psychological abuse. This takes place through both verbal and nonverbal actions and it can be hard to recognize the signs. Be on the lookout for drastic and sudden changes in mood and behavior.
What are the 7 types of elder abuse?
There are seven main categories of elder abuse. These types are physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial abuse, and self-neglect. If you or a loved one has been a victim of any of these types of abuse, contact an experienced Elder Abuse Attorney right away.
How many elders are abused each year?
It is estimated that 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have experienced some form of elder abuse. It is also estimated that only one out of 14 cases are actually reported to the authorities. This is why it is crucial to know the signs in order to protect your loved ones.
Finding The Best Providence Elder Abuse Lawyer
AWARD WINNING INJURY LAWYER
Louis W. Grande is a top-rated, award-winning Providence personal injury lawyer that has helped clients throughout the state of Rhode Island for the last 30+ years recover millions in compensation for personal injury claims. Have you been injured? Call today for a free case evaluation.
Louis is an amazing attorney! He fights hard to get you what you deserve and he doesn’t give in. You couldn’t ask for a better lawyer to represent your interests and I can’t recommend him enough!
– Steve H.
TOP-RATED PROVIDENCE ELDER ABUSE LAWYER
Louis W. Grande is committed to providing quality legal representation and, above all, personal attention to our clients’ individual needs. Conveniently located within minutes of downtown Providence on historic Smith Street, there is never a charge for an initial consultation. With evening and weekend appointments available, when your personal problems call for an experienced Rhode Island Elder Abuse Lawyer, our firm is ready to assist you.
- No fee or cost unless we win your case.
- Receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
- Personalized and professional service.
Before talking with the insurance companies, be sure to call our office. We are here to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We aggressively defend the rights of victims of elder abuse and their families as well as other personal injuries in Rhode Island. We will keep you updated on the status of your claim at all times while explaining the process and what you can expect following an elder abuse situation. We are fully committed to getting the most money we can for you.
The time following an instance of elder abuse is stressful, and we are here to offer you our legal support by fighting aggressively to defend your rights. No matter your legal situation, if you or a loved one has suffered elder abuse, you could be compensated.
Our goal is to get you the compensation you and your family deserve to relieve the financial impact following elder abuse. Contact me now for help.
Proudly Serving All of Rhode Island Since 1990