Identifying signs of elder abuse can be challenging at times. It is important to familiarize yourself with the signs of abuse to help prevent any future potential for harm against you or a loved one. Recognizing the signs of elder abuse early can help you take timely action. There are a number of different signs, depending on the type of abuse.
Physical Signs of Abuse
Some physical signs of abuse include:
- Bruises
- Abrasions
- Cuts
- Scars
- Sprains
- Broken Bones
- Weight loss or malnourishment
- Poor hygiene and lack of medical care
Signs of emotional abuse often include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Social isolation
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Unusually quiet or fearful around others
If you notice any of these signs, it could be an indicator of elder abuse. If you suspect a caregiver or other individual is causing harm to you or a loved one, we strongly encourage you to call Evans Case to speak with one of our elder abuse attorneys.
Signs of financial exploitation may be harder to notice than physical indicators, but some things to keep an eye out for may include:
- Unexplained bank withdrawals and transfers
- Changes in wills or financial documents
- Missing property
- Unpaid bills
Serious financial abuse can have devastating effects on an elderly individual. The loss of valuable or sentimental personal items can also cause emotional distress. If you are noticing unusual activity with your bank accounts, or suspect that you may be the victim of any kind of financial exploitation, we strongly encourage you to reach out to Evans Case Today. Our trusted team of elder abuse attorneys are committed to keeping elderly individuals protected and seeking justice.
Exploitation
Elder abuse is any act that causes harm to an elderly person, and it is defined in Colorado statute as a variety of acts, including exploitation, which is any act or omission that involves the use of deception, harassment, intimidation, or undue influence to permanently or temporarily deprive an at-risk adult of anything of value.
This may also involve hiring a third party for the personal profit or gain of the individual or business to the detriment of the at-risk adult; forcing the adult to provide services against their will for another person's benefit; or misusing the property of an at-risk adult so that his ability to obtain healthcare, healthcare benefits, or pay for basic needs or obligations is impaired.
At-Risk Adult" means any person eighteen years of age or older who is susceptible to mistreatment or self-neglect because the person, due to physical or mental impairment, or because the person is incapacitated or disabled, is unable to perform or obtain necessary services for such person's health, safety, or welfare or lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning such person's person or affairs (C.R.S. 26-3.1-101(1.5)).
Likewise, an "At-Risk Elder" means any person seventy years of age or older, or any person eighteen years of age or older with a disability, as defined in the statute. An "At-Risk Adult with IDD" means any person eighteen years of age or older with an intellectual and developmental disability as defined in section 25.5–10–202(26)(a), C.R.S.
Collectively, an "At-Risk Person" includes at-risk adults, at-risk adults with IDD, at-risk elders, or at-risk juveniles (C.R.S. 18-6.5-102(2, 2.5, 3, 4.5)).
Understanding these definitions can help one begin to see the variety of ways in which elder abuse can manifest and can help ensure proper protection for the vulnerable members of our communities.
How Can You Report Elder Abuse?
If you or a loved one have been the victim of elder abuse, it is essential that you report it to the proper authorities. In Colorado, there are a number of different ways to report elder abuse.
Contact Local Authorities
You can contact the Denver Police Department or your local authorities and report suspected abuse. If you believe that you or a loved one are in immediate danger, it is recommended that you call 911 for immediate support.
Adult Protective Services
Denver’s Adult Protective Services is tasked with investigating reports of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and more. To report a case of elder abuse and request an investigation, you can contact Adult Protective Services with all of your concerns.
Colorado Department of Human Services
Call the Colorado Department of Human Services hotline to report elder abuse: 1-844-CO-4-HELP (1-844-264-4357). This service is available 24/7.
If you suspect elder abuse, we recommend that you call the local authorities or Adult Protective Services, and consult with an attorney immediately. The sooner you are able to seek help, the sooner you will be able to prevent any risk of future harm. The elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case are here to help victims all over the city of Denver.
Legal Assistance
An experienced elder abuse attorney can assist in guiding you through the appropriate steps to take if you or a loved one have been the victim of elder abuse. The elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case can help you throughout the reporting process and keep you and your rights protected.
Contact us today to see how we can offer invaluable legal support.
Legal Actions to Take Against Elder Abuse
There are many different steps that you can take if you have been the victim of elder abuse. Some actions that you can take to help keep yourself protected and hold the abuser accountable include:
- Civil Lawsuits: A civil lawsuit can be filed against the abuser either by the victim or members of the victim’s family. Victims may be able to claim compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, or any other damages that may have arisen as a result of abuse.
- Prosecution: In Colorado, elder abuse is a criminal offense. Local law enforcement is able to conduct an investigation and criminally prosecute perpetrators, leading to criminal charges and possibly even jail time. ,
- Protective Orders: Victims of elder abuse are able to receive a protective order, or a restraining order, from their abuser. These protective orders offer protection for elders against their abusers and are enforced by law enforcement.
- Guardianships: If an elderly individual is either incapacitated or cognitively impaired, the court can appoint a guardian to look after them and ensure their safety.
An elder abuse attorney will be able to help guide you through whichever route is best suited for you or your loved one. Whether that be a civil suit, filing for a protection order, or establishing guardianship, the elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case have the experience to help you seek justice and assist in finding the best option for you. Do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at Evans Case to set up a consultation and discuss your case. See why we are trusted to provide unwavering support and compassion throughout the Denver area.
