Everything You Need to Know About Recognizing and Reporting Elder Abuse in California
Elder abuse is a silent and concerning epidemic in California. Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing and reporting elder abuse in California.
Recognizing signs and learning how to report elder abuse protects a loved one’s well being and can even save their life. If you have a loved one who is above the age of 60 years old, report any signs of elder abuse in California to 911 and through Adult Protective Services.
What is Elder Abuse in California?
Elder abuse in California is considered a form of domestic violence because it is an act performed by a person the elder trusts, such as a caregiver or dependent. In California, an elder is an individual who is 60 years of older. Elder abuse is the failure to act or a wrongful act which harms the elder in some way. Elder abuse can be financial, physical, mental, sexual, or through isolation and neglect.
Elder abuse is unfortunately common, and many victims do not know how to stop it or report it. Victims also may not want to report abuse because the perpetrator is someone they trust. Loved ones may not know which signs to look for, or the victim may not want to discuss it.
Related: Elder Financial Abuse in California
Signs of Elder Abuse in California
Although elder abuse can take different forms, the following are common signs of abuse. Recognizing the following signs can save a loved one’s life:
- Refrains from hobbies
- Hygiene has declined
- Loss of sleep or sleeping too much
- Lacks activity in daily routine
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Acts in violent or angry ways
- Shows signs of stress or depression
- Has bruises, cuts, or injuries that cannot be explained
- Does not have access to needed medical aids or medications
- Behind on bills or suddenly spends too much
- Gives away valuable items to distant relatives
- Discusses certain provisions in a will that he or she may change
- Living space is neglected and disorganized
- Seems to forget day to day actions
- Misses medical appointments
- Distances oneself from relatives
- Another person is suddenly given access to personal records and power of attorney
Related: How to Get Guardianship of an Elder in California
How to Report Elder Abuse in California
In California, reports of elder abuse go through Adult Protective Services, also known as APS. APS is a California government entity responsible for investigating complaints of elder abuse. APS provides resources to help those who are suffering. APS helps simplify reporting elder abuse in California. If the elder is in immediate danger, always call 911 to report the abuse. Whether or not 911 is notified, the abuse can be reported to a local APS provider. Report abuse to APS by calling the 24 hour hotline, linked here. File an elder abuse report through APS and detail the abuse for investigation purposes. Penalties for neglecting to report elder abuse may apply, especially if one is a mandated reporter in the state of California.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about how to recognize and report elder abuse in California, get your free consultation with one of our family law attorneys in California today!