5 Common Forms of Elder Abuse in Arizona

Our elderly Arizona population deserves to be respected and cared for. Sometimes those who are trusted with their care, such as long-term assistance, nursing home staff, and other professionals, violate our trust and cause serious harm to our elderly loved ones. The duty of care for these providers is called a “fiduciary duty,” which means that it is a higher duty than normal. Breach of this duty that harms our elderly family and friends is an incredibly devastating and traumatic situation that should be handled with care, planning and good judgment. 

The attorneys at Jensen Phelan Law Firm are dedicated to holding abusers responsible for their actions and helping victims find the justice they deserve. While pursuing legal action is often necessary, it can be emotionally challenging, especially for victims, which is why we are proud to offer our over 65 years of combined legal services. We take on the legal battle and secure favorable outcomes so that you and your elderly loved one have the closure and compensation you need to move forward. 

5 Common Forms of Elder Abuse in Arizona

Elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or distress to an older person. Elder abuse can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse: This includes when physical pain or injury is inflicted on an older person, such as hitting, slapping, pushing, or restraining them.
• Emotional or psychological abuse: This may include emotional pain, anguish, or distress through verbal or nonverbal behavior, such as insults, threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation.
• Sexual abuse: This type of abuse includes any sexual activity without the older person’s consent or involving an older person who is unable to understand or unwilling to consent.
• Financial abuse: Financial abuse may consist of coercing an elder to sign financial documents or convincing them to change their will.
• Neglect: Neglect often includes failing to provide for an older person’s basic needs, such as food, water, shelter, medical care, and hygiene.

It’s important to note that elder abuse can occur in any setting, including in the older person’s home, in a nursing home, or in a caregiver’s home. Elder abuse is a serious problem that often requires the skilled knowledge of a lawyer to make sure the liable parties are held responsible.

What to Do if Your Elderly Loved One is Being Abused in Arizona

If you suspect that your elderly loved one is being abused in Arizona, there are several steps you can take to help protect them:

• Call for help: If your loved one is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local emergency number.
• Report the abuse: Report the abuse to Adult Protective Services (APS) in Arizona. You can call the statewide hotline at 1-877-SOS-ADULT (1-877-767-2385) or visit their website. APS will investigate the situation and take appropriate action to protect your loved one.
• Contact the Arizona Department of Health Services: If your loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, report the abuse to the Arizona Department of Health Services. You can call their complaint hotline at 602-364-2536 or visit their website. They will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Contact an attorney: Contact an attorney who specializes in elder abuse cases. They can help you understand your legal options and represent your loved one’s interests in court if necessary.
• Be supportive: Offer emotional support to your loved one. Being a victim of elder abuse can be traumatic, and your loved one may need your support to recover and heal.

Remember, it’s important to take action if you suspect that your loved one is being abused. By reporting the abuse and finding legal help, you can help protect your loved one and prevent further harm.

Retain an Elder Abuse Attorney Today by Contacting Jensen Phelan Law Firm

When we place trust in the caregivers and professionals in charge of taking care of our elderly loved ones, we expect that our elderly loved ones are in good hands. Unfortunately, far too often, that trust is broken, and our elderly loved ones suffer abuse at their hands. This is an incredibly traumatic and emotional experience that needs to be handled with care and compassion. 

At Jensen Phelan Law Firm, we understand the importance of personalized care and compassion in these types of situations. However, when it comes to making sure the abuser is brought to justice, we fight against elder abuse and stop at nothing to make sure they’re held responsible for their actions. Contact our firm today for a free assessment of your case and explanation of your rights. Reach out to us through our online contact form or call (928) 778-2660.