Bellevue Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

In the most recent studies available, approximately 7.5-10 percent of people over age 65 reported experiencing some kind of abuse, most often perpetrated by family members or nursing home staff. Those figures do not include financial abuse, which is even more widespread. Because this is becoming a common issue, it is best to consult with an experienced Bellevue nursing home abuse attorney if you have any questions or concerns at all about your loved one’s care.

Common Types of Elder Abuse

Unfortunately, there are several different ways that elderly people are prime targets for abuse. These include:

• Physical and/or sexual. In a nursing home, this can manifest itself as a sudden “increase in clumsy behavior,” bloody clothes, or other injuries poorly explained
• Neglect. The signs of neglect include bed sores or soiled clothing, and in extreme cases, malnourishment.
• Emotional. Mockery, insults, threats and isolating the elderly person can cause very real harm, especially to the most vulnerable.
• Financial. This is the most common form of abuse that is not directly physical, and can cause lasting repercussions for the entire family. Unscrupulous caregivers can forge checks, drain bank accounts and sell assets that can render an elderly person unable to afford care or even worse.