Four Tips to Reduce the Risk of Elder Abuse
Unfortunately, elder abuse remains a serious problem. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) estimates that one in ten seniors are affected. There are proactive measures that your family can take to protect your elderly parents and other vulnerable loved ones. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, we have extensive elder law experience. Here, our Monmouth County elder law attorney highlights four actionable tips that you and your family can use to reduce the risk of abuse.
- Develop an Elder Care Plan
As a starting point, you and your family should work toward developing a comprehensive elder care plan for any aging loved ones, including elderly parents and elderly grandparents. Your loved one can benefit from setting up their own, customized estate plan. From there, an additional elder care plan can provide some much needed support. As a general guideline, the plan should outline the daily needs of the elderly individual, including medical care, social activities, and personal preferences. A well-thought-out care plan can prevent confusion and reduce the risk of abuse.
- Do Research On Caregivers and Facilities
You may need to hire a part-time caregiver, full-time caregiver, or move your elderly loved one into a licensed facility. Always thoroughly researching potential caregivers and elder care facilities. Start by checking references, credentials, and reviews. Visit facilities in person and speak with staff and residents to gauge the quality of care. Background checks on individual caregivers can reveal any past issues that might raise concerns. Make sure to choose providers who are experienced in handling the specific needs of your elderly family member. Research can make the difference.
- Communicate (Keep Family Involved)
Communication between all parties is another one of the keys to reducing the risk of elder abuse and/or elder neglect. Keep everyone informed about the elderly person’s condition, care plan, and any concerns that arise. Regular check-ins, both in person and via phone or video calls, help maintain a connection and ensure that any issues are quickly addressed. You should encourage family members to visit frequently and participate in caregiving activities when possible.
- Learn the Signs of Elder Abuse/Neglect
Finally, it is important to remember that elder abuse and elder neglect remain an ongoing risk even if you have the absolute best and most comprehensive plan in place. For that reason, it is imperative that you are aware of the early warning signs that indicate something is wrong. Understanding the signs of elder abuse and neglect is essential for early detection and intervention. Physical signs such as unexplained bruises, cuts, or sores, as well as sudden changes in behavior, can indicate abuse. Neglect may also manifest as poor hygiene, weight loss, or untreated medical conditions.
Get Help From an Elder Law Attorney in Monmouth County
At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, our New Jersey elder law attorneys are skilled, experienced, and compassionate advocates for people and families. We can help you put a comprehensive plan in place to protect your vulnerable loved one. Contact us today for a completely confidential initial consultation. We provide elder law support in Monmouth County and throughout New Jersey.
Source:
ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-elder-abuse
