Elder Abuse in Florida

What do you think of when you hear the word, “grandparent?” For many, the image of a kindly older person wearing a cardigan sweater and gently swaying in a rocking chair comes to mind–someone who is well cared for and kindly. Unfortunately, not every older adult fits into that stereotype and, in fact, far too many suffer abuse at the hands of family members or care givers. What does this look like, and what can be done about it?

What Constitutes Elder Abuse

According to Florida law, elder abuse can take place in many forms, and involves purposeful acts intended to cause either psychological or physical harm to an individual who is 60+ years old and has age-related limitations. The abuse could include:

• Neglect: Failing to provide basic necessities such as shelter, clothing, food, or medical attention to someone in your care;
• Emotional Abuse: Humiliating, threatening, or isolating an elder in your care;
• Financial Exploitation: Improperly and/or illegally accessing the assets, property, or money of an elderly person in your care;
• Physical Abuse: Using physical force to restrain, or injure an elder in your care;
• Sexual Abuse: Engaging in non-consensual sexual activity or in such activity when an elderly person is unable to provide informed consent.

How Can You Surmise Abuse is Occurring 

There are some telltale indicators that someone is being abused or neglected.  If there is an elderly person you know of and care about who you suspect is being victimized, look for these signs:

• Bedsores, severe weight loss or dehydration, poor hygiene, an unclean living area, or long periods where they are unattended;
• Unexplained bruising, fractures, lacerations, and so forth, that seem to occur with regularity;
• Painful sitting or walking, torn or bloody undergarments, fear of caregivers, venereal diseases;
• The sudden disappearance of valued items or shrinking bank accounts, legal documents changing beneficiaries, sudden close relationships with individuals who may be looking to gain from the relationship.

Reporting Suspected Abuse

If there are indicators of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, it is important to report the situation to the Department of Children and Families right away. The agency will then investigate the matter. It will start with an in-person visit with the purported victim within 24 hours of being notified. Interviews and observations will occur, and the investigator will make a determination as to the legitimacy of the allegations.

The Legal Advocate You Need

Allegations of elder abuse are a serious matter.  It can be an emotional process, especially if the victim involved is someone you care deeply about. That’s why it’s important to have an ethical, experienced attorney advocating on behalf of your concerns for the elderly individual involved. At The Law Office of Julia Kefalinos, our Miami domestic violence lawyers aggressively defend the rights of the elderly and seek justice for any criminal acts against them. To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation in our Miami office today.

Source:

myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/adult-protective-services/how-report-adult-abuse/what-happens-after-i-make-report/