North Miami Beach Elder Abuse

Elder abuse in North Miami Beach and other communities can involve physical assault, confinement, fraud, theft, sexual abuse, power of attorney abuse, and neglect. It can involve failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care and in some cases it can involve threats, humiliation, and other forms of emotional abuse. Unfortunately, seniors are vulnerable to these types of abuses in part because they may rely on caregivers for assistance. Elder abuse can result in criminal charges or in a civil claim, but first families and friends of the victim need to notice the abuse and put a stop to it.

If a member of your family has suffered injury through elder abuse or nursing home abuse or neglect, contact Flaxman Law Group at any time. Our South Florida law firm has offices in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood to serve families just like yours. We offer a free case consultation so you risk nothing by learning about the steps you can take to seek justice on behalf of your loved one.

Neglect as a Type of Elder Abuse

While many types of abuse – including physical abuse, financial abuse, and sexual abuse – involve the perpetrator doing something to a victim, neglect can also be a type of abuse even though it usually involves the absence of action. In situations of neglect, a caregiver fails to provide the basics of life. Neglect can involve:

• Failure to provide adequate clothing for the weather
• Failure to offer assistance for everyday activities
• Failure to ensure proper hygiene
• Lack of access to food and water
• Lack of heating or air conditioning
• Lack of access to sleeping quarters and a bathroom
• Failure to provide medical care or medication
• Failure to provide some physical activity or exercise in a mobile patient
• Failure to move or turn a patient who is bedridden

The elderly are often especially vulnerable to neglect because they may need some assistance with getting dressed, eating, and other everyday tasks. In fact, many families choose to place an elderly family member in a nursing home or other care environment in North Miami Beach or their community precisely because a family member requires additional care. When that senior does not get adequate care, it is important for those responsible to be held accountable for their actions.

Signs of Neglect

There are many signs that neglect has taken place:

• Bed sores
• Body odor
• Lack of grooming
• Lack of appropriate clothing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unexplained illness
• Lethargic or withdrawn behavior
• Hunger or thirst
• Signs of lice or other infestations

Any signs of neglect or abuse should be reported and investigated immediately and thoroughly. Neglect can lead to illness and even fatalities in someone who is already ill or frail.

At Flaxman Law Group, we consider ourselves to be strong advocates for victims of injuries and abuse. If you suspect that a loved one has been the victim of neglect or elder abuse, contact Flaxman Law Group to arrange a free accident consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys. You can discuss your legal options and we can help you understand your rights.

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