Elder Abuse – What Should I Be Looking Out For?
A growing senior population also means a growing number of vulnerable people.
It’s an unfortunate reality that the elderly are often the victims of abuse. This can range from emotional abuse and manipulation, to financial abuse and sometimes even physical abuse.
Some may have read the recent story about comic book legend Stan Lee, who himself has been the victim of elder abuse. It has been alleged that Mr. Lee’s manager, Keya Morgan, inserted himself into Mr. Lee’s life and was unduly influencing him, including taking advantage of his impaired health, moving him out of his home, and preventing friends from seeing him. A temporary restraining order was issued against Mr. Morgan. It is estimated that Stan Lee, who is 95 years old, has an estate worth more than $50 million (US).
While this has been widely reported because of Stan Lee’s fame, elder abuse of this kind can happen to anyone, regardless of their wealth, fame or social status.
It is up to family members and friends to be on the lookout for any kind of elder abuse. Below are some red flags you should be aware of:
- Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, broken bones, or signs of being restrained
- Obvious ongoing tension between the elderly person and the caregiver
- Belittling or controlling behavior exhibited by the caregiver toward the elderly person
- Signs of neglect, such as unusual weight loss, untreated physical conditions, unsanitary or unsafe living conditions
- Any change in the elderly person’s personality or behavior, such as if they are uncharacteristically quiet and withdrawn, or if they appear anxious or depressed.
Read more about elder abuse in our previous blog posts here and here.
Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and staff at the firm wore purple today in recognition of this day. You can read more here.
For more information on what you can do if you suspect a friend or relative is a victim of elder abuse, contact our Wills and Estates Group.