Alzheimer Memory Abuse

Orange County Alzheimer’s Abuse Lawyer

Senior family members who have been placed in specialized care because of their battles with Alzheimer’s and/or dementia are uniquely vulnerable to abuse and neglect. It is an unfortunate truth and one which no family wants or should have to face. However, the reality is that this nightmare is happening in some of the very places that are supposed to be providing comfort and care.

If you suspect abuse of your elderly loved one, an Orange County Alzheimer’s abuse lawyer can help. At Travis Siegel, we offer free consultations to explore your legal options. Contact us today to learn how an Alzheimer’s abuse attorney in Orange County fight for justice.

When Is It Time to Look for a Care Center?

In the beginning, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory challenges are usually handled by a close family member or caregiver at home. Often, the medical and personal needs of the patient increase to the point where the caregiver has to provide round-the-clock care and install security measures to prevent the patient from “wandering.” There is a risk of danger within the home because the patient might turn on a stove and forget, for example.

At this point, it may be necessary to find a care center for the loved one. Options include assisted living, in which the patient maintains an independent living space but with the availability of full-time professional staff; a nursing home, for those who pose a danger to themselves or have a tendency to wander; or a daycare facility part-time that allows a caregiver or family member to maintain her own daily needs and business.

Types and Signs of Abuse

While residents in a care center, seniors may be abused in any number of ways:

Signs and symptoms to watch for in your loved one include:

Unexplained or repeated bruises, recurring falls, and cuts
Changes in personality (not attributed to the medical diagnoses) or demonstrations of fear in the presence of a particular caregiver
Changes in sleeping schedule
Social withdrawal or losing interest in things previously enjoyed
Eating changes (may be eating more or less)
Needing prescriptions more or less frequently than expected
Financial losses or changes to estate beneficiaries
Claims of mistreatment or abuse

Of all the signs and symptoms, the last one mentioned is the hardest to hear. In many circumstances, hearing that may not be reliable evidence of abuse depending on the mental state of the patient; but it must be taken seriously and investigated. If you notice any of the signs of abuse, contact a dedicated nursing home abuse lawyer in Orange County as soon as possible to discuss legal options.

Alzheimer’s Patients Have Higher Risk of Abuse

Because of the memory loss and confusion associated with Alzheimer’s, people suffering from it are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Caretakers sometimes take out frustration or target these patients because they cannot remember the abuse.

In a study published by the Alzheimer’s Society in 2011, they found that 15% of Alzheimer’s patients had been victims of financial abuse. It’s almost certain that many cases have yet to be discovered.

What Can You Do If You Suspect Abuse?

If you suspect that your beloved senior is suffering abuse at the hands of a caregiver or in a facility to which you have entrusted him or her, there is no time to waste. Contact the local law enforcement authority as well as Adult Protective Services at (877) 4-R-SENIORS (477-3646).

To protect the legal rights of your senior and to get advice and counsel on the next steps, reach out to an experienced Orange County Alzheimer’s abuse attorney at Travis Siegel by calling 562-414-5294.

Additional Information

Call me today at (562) 414-5294 or contact Travis Siegel online to schedule a free consultation. There is no fee unless I recover compensation for you.

Our FAQ

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 562-414-5294 today!

Choosing the right nursing home for your loved ones is a personal (and tough) decision. It is something you must decide on your own, or with the rest of your family. With that in mind, however, there are a few resources you can use to help with the decision.
The Health Facilities Consumer Information System provided by the state of California lets you search for different types of health facilities, including nursing homes. The Medicare website also provides a tool for finding nursing homes.
The Health Facilities Consumer Information System also lets you search for complaints against said facilities. You can use this tool to check on any homes you might be considering and see if complaints have been filed against them.
Remember, if you suspect any form of elderly abuse or negligence has occurred, trust your instincts and call us at Siegel Law. 562-414-5294
Pressure sores, also called bed sores and pressure ulcers, are a common sign of nursing home abuse or neglect. They are caused by unrelieved pressure on the skin. Bed sores typically appear near areas where the bones are close to the skin: the hips, back, elbows, and ankles. When pressure sores first show up, they’re just skin irritation. With prompt treatment, they typically have no lasting effects. When not treated quickly, however, later stages can result in serious damage not only to the skin but also to muscle and bone.
The greatest tragedy of pressure sores is that they are relatively easy to prevent. Regular movement of a person restricted to a bed or wheelchair can help avoid pressure sores. Someone who must remain in bed should be moved about every two hours. The use of a pressure-reducing mattress can help. A proper diet, cleanliness, and daily exercise all help prevent pressure sores and eliminate the serious harm that can accompany them.
The answer is no. Siegel Law takes all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that our clients owe the firm nothing for expenses unless they are awarded a monetary settlement or we receive a favorable verdict at trial. All expenses will be deducted from the settlement or jury verdict. Not a dime will be taken out of your pocket.

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Decades of Experience

Travis Siegel has been protecting abused elders since 2007. He is well-versed in injury law and knows how to prepare an effective claim that maximizes a recovery.
Will Fight For You

Having witnessed a personal family tragedy involving medical malpractice at a young age, Travis has dedicated his legal career to helping families seek justice.
Proven Results

Travis Siegel has successfully recovered millions of dollars for his injured clients, including multi-million dollar recoveries in complex cases.
With You at Every Step

Travis is known as an aggressive litigator who has the courtroom savvy and tenacity to take any claim to court if necessary.
Trial Advocacy
Travis is known as an aggressive litigator who has the courtroom savvy and tenacity to take any claim to court if necessary. He stands by your side every step of the way, inside and outside of court.
Results
Travis Siegel has successfully recovered millions of dollars for his injured clients, including multi-million dollar recoveries in complex cases involving medical malpractice and elder abuse against large residential care facilities.