7 Types of Elder Abuse and Neglect You Should Be Aware Of

Elder abuse remains a widespread and deeply disturbing problem in today’s society. It requires urgent attention and commitment from both government institutions and the community. These appalling acts represent a clear violation of basic human rights.

As we’ll explore in this blog, elder abuse can take many forms. However, any instance of abuse or neglect—whether in nursing homes, by caregivers, or even family members—is unquestionably illegal and fully punishable under the law.

If you are considering filing a lawsuit for elder abuse, do not hesitate to contact us. Call (800) 310-1606 today to learn more about your case. We take elder abuse extremely seriously and are committed to pursuing justice so that no senior has to suffer in silence.

What is Elder Abuse?

There are many possible definitions of elder abuse. Essentially, it is when someone physically or emotionally hurts, neglects, steals, threatens, or unlawfully deprives a person over the age of 65 of their liberty.

As California law mentions, elder abuse stems from any “type of conduct that causes physical harm, pain, or mental suffering.” This includes not only direct actions like hitting or threatening, but also neglectful behavior—such as denying food, medical care, or essential services that the elderly person depends on.

Main Types of Elder Abuse and Neglect

Before diving into the specific types of elder abuse, it’s important to understand that this mistreatment can occur in two main settings:

• Domestic Abuse: When the victim is harmed by a family member or private caregiver in their home or a relative’s residence.
• Institutional Abuse: Any mistreatment that happens within assisted living communities, nursing homes, or full-time care facilities.

There are many ways older people are mistreated or taken advantage of. According to the National Institute on Aging, any older person can be a victim of elder abuse. No matter the race, religion, or environment. The latter is important, as it can occur in nursing homes, by the caregiver responsible for assisting the victim at home, or even in a family member’s residence. Bellow, you can learn more about the main types of elder abuse and neglect:

Physical Abuse

This includes hitting, slapping, pushing, or any other use of physical force that causes injury, pain, or suffering.

Sexual Abuse

Any non-consensual sexual contact or harassment toward an elderly person. This can involve unwanted touching, inappropriate comments, or any act of a sexual nature without consent.

Neglect

Occurs when caregivers fail to meet an elder’s basic needs, such as food, hygiene, medical care, or safety.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Includes yelling, insults, humiliation, threats, manipulation, or social isolation, all of which can severely affect the victim’s mental and emotional well-being.

Abandonment

Happens when a dependent elderly person is left alone without the necessary care, support, or supervision.

Isolation or Abduction

When someone purposely restricts an elder’s ability to communicate, visit family or friends, or participate in social activities. 

Financial Abuse

Examples include theft, forgery, coercion to change wills or deeds, misuse of the power of attorney, or unauthorized access to bank accounts.

How Common Is Elder Abuse in California?

California is home to one of the largest elderly populations in the United States, with 14% of its residents aged 65 or older. According to the California Office of the Attorney General (OAG), the number of seniors in the state is expected to double between 2010 and 2030.

Alarmingly, the OAG reports that California has more than twice the national average of elder abuse and neglect cases. While the national average is about 5% of all claims, California accounts for about 13%. In fact, 11% of all elder abuse cases nationwide occur in the Golden State. This equates to more than 175,000 complaints each year.

How to Prove Nursing Home or Caregiver Elder Abuse And Neglect In California?

California has some of the strongest elder abuse laws in the country. These statutes authorize both civil liability and criminal prosecution in cases of elder abuse or neglect. However, proving these cases often requires substantial evidence, which can be difficult to obtain.

As previously mentioned, elder abuse is not limited to nursing homes. It can occur in private residences, during family visits, in-home care settings, or even in medical facilities. While the location may vary, the priority for a successful case is to have as much evidence as possible.

At Adamson Ahdoot, we recommend that you collect the following evidence before filing a lawsuit in order to have a solid case:

• Photographs of physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, hematomas, or contusions.
• Pictures of private and common areas that are poorly maintained and unhygienic.
• Testimonies of witnesses who were present during some situations of mistreatment, from workers such as a family member or a patient of the nursing home.
• All documentation confirming constant visits to emergency services or missed medical appointments.
• If there are security cameras, try to obtain a copy of the negligent actions of the perpetrator.
• Objects that are broken or damaged by the aggressor.
• A personal diary or calendar in which the victim documents the abuse as it happened.

Can a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Help You With Your Case?

Absolutely! Especially if you work with a lawyer experienced in elder abuse cases. The complex network of state and federal laws that regulate elder abuse and neglect can be overwhelming, even for informed families. That’s why choosing the right injury attorneys, like those at Adamson Ahdoot, can be the key to a successful outcome.

With the support of our legal team, both the victim and their loved ones can focus on their well-being and recovery. This also benefits mental health by reducing the stress associated with the legal process. Our professionals will use all available resources to develop the most effective legal strategy.

They also work with social workers, forensic psychologists, and other specialists to thoroughly document every detail of the case.

Entrust Your Case to Adamson Ahdoot 

We understand how difficult it is to speak out and report the painful reality of elder abuse, mistreatment, or neglect. That’s why, at Adamson Ahdoot, we handle your case with the utmost respect, empathy, and determination to secure the justice you and your loved ones deserve.

With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has a proven track record representing seniors in personal injury and abuse cases. We know how to confront those responsible and hold them fully accountable.

Call us today at (800) 310-1606 or submit your consultation online. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions with the care and sensitivity you deserve.