A recent news article raised the issue of elder abuse of actor John Amos, former star of “Good Times”, who died at the age of 84. His daughter, Shannon Amos, hired an attorney to investigate his care at the Centinela Hospital in Los Angeles. She said that someone impersonated her during her father's hospital admission. Also, she had filed a complaint earlier in the year with Adult Protective Services in New Jersey, accusing her brother K.C. of elder abuse in their father's care. She is trying to find out the results of any investigation as well as obtain her father's medical records. Her brother K.C. denied all claims of abuse and said their father died from natural causes of congestive heart failure.

If you suspect elder abuse of a loved one in New Jersey, get immediate help from the experienced elder law attorneys at the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team today. The elderly are vulnerable since an abuser is often a family member. Do not delay and call today at 888-535-3686 or through our online form.

Elder Abuse in New Jersey

Elder abuse affects 1in 10 seniors nationwide, and more than 70,000 elderly people in New Jersey are at risk for neglect and abuse. Unfortunately, over 60 % of the elderly are abused by family members, making reporting an issue since they are victims of domestic violence. It is estimated that only 4 % of abuse cases end up being reported in New Jersey.

The investigative body that will respond to reported claims that an elderly person is subject to abuse, neglect, or exploitation in New Jersey is the Adult Protective Services (APS).

Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse

It is vital to recognize the signs of elder abuse in order to take steps to report and protect vulnerable seniors. Below is a brief summary of common types of elder abuse, along with their warning signs.

• Physical Abuse- This involves physical force and some type of bodily harm inflicted on an elderly person. Signs include unexplained injuries, bruises, or marks on the body that suggest undue restraint.
• Emotional Abuse- This involves the infliction or mental distress, pain, or anguish either verbally or non-verbally. Signs include sudden or unusual changes in mood and/or a loss of interest or withdrawal from normal social activities.
• Financial abuse- This involves suspicious or sudden changes in finances. Look for signs such as financial withdrawals, unpaid bills, or inability to handle ordinary daily expenses. Sudden asset transfers may also be a warning sign.
• Neglect and self-neglect- This involves a caregiver not providing necessary care or an elderly person failing to care for themselves. Look for poor hygiene, dehydration, malnourishment, or an unsanitary or unsafe living situation.

Get Help Today at the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team

Seek help and legal advice immediately if you suspect elder abuse. The Lento Law Firm Family Law Team is experienced in all issues concerning elder law in New Jersey, and they stand ready to protect all the rights of the elderly. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or through our online form.