What are the chances elders in Charleston will fall victim to scams?
Unfortunately, seniors are a common target for financial fraud or abuse. In some cases, the perpetrator is someone who does not know the victim, but many seniors are also exploited by caregivers or family members. Because of cognitive or mental challenges, some seniors could have a difficult time evaluating who to trust with their finances.
South Carolina Had 1,350 elderly fraud victims in 2020.
Resulting in 9,987,360 total losses.
An attorney for seniors in Charleston can help them to protect their money and investments. Because seniors are frequent victims of fraud, an attorney with experience in elder law can be a valuable asset in identifying legitimate individuals or helping to recover stolen funds. For many seniors, knowing that their loved ones will be taken care of after their passing is extremely important. A trusted lawyer can help to ensure that their funds are well-managed and safe.
What are some signs of elder abuse that caregivers in Charleston should look for?
Because many seniors are isolated or struggle with significant cognitive or physical challenges, abuse in older adults can be difficult to identify. Seniors can be victims of all types of abuse from financial crimes to sexual abuse or neglect. The National Center on Elder Abuse provides a starting point for signs of elder abuse.
Signs to look for in identifying elder abuse
- Physical Abuse
- bruises, wounds, cuts, fractures, sprains, or other signs of physical trauma
- recent falls
- signs of punishment such as evidence of physical restraint
- medication overdoses
- Psychological Abuse
- emotional distress or withdrawal
- lack of self-care
- lower self-esteem or feeling of despair and worthlessness
- dementia behaviors like biting, rocking, and sucking
- Sexual Abuse
- bruises and abrasions in the chest or genital region
- STDs, bleeding, and trauma in genital areas, genital infections
- increased anxiety or depression
- agitation, restlessness, and sleep disturbances
- Financial Abuse
- sudden changes in bank account or to a will or other financial documents
- disappearance of funds, possessions
- poor financial decisions
- unpaid bills and other financial distress
- anxiety and depression
- malnutrition
- Neglect
- unsanitary or unsafe living conditions
- personal hygiene issues
- untreated bed sores
- untreated/unattended health issues
- malnutrition or dehydration
Whether your older adult is aging in place or living in a nurse facility, having an advocate can help them avoid dangerous situations. An attorney with experience in elder care can provide trusted counsel and make sure your older adult is getting their needs met. Beyond concerns about safety or fraud, an attorney can give your older adult guidance and assistance as they make end-of-life plans or prepare a will. This can help them feel comfortable as they age, knowing that their affairs are in order.
Why should I help the senior in my life find an elder care attorney in Charleston?
An elder care attorney in Charleston can provide vital support in a number of ways. Even if your senior already has a lawyer, it might be worth finding them an elder care attorney. Elder law requires specific types of legal work, and an expert in those areas can provide excellent service that is tailored to your older adult's needs. By acting as an advocate for your older adult, they can help them feel comfortable and secure by protecting them from various forms of abuse and ensuring that their voice is heard. Additionally, they can prepare documents related to end-of-life scenarios, such as a will and testament or an advance healthcare directive.
Looking for an attorney who treats your older adult with the dignity they deserve can feel daunting. Our comprehensive guide to choosing an elder care law attorney provides you with guidance about how to find a suitable lawyer and the elements to consider in your search.
Elder care attorneys in Charleston
If you are looking for a Charleston elder care attorney, it is important to know where to start looking. Seasons offers listings and guides that can support you as you search for an elder care attorney in Charleston. Whether you need to know more about the attorneys that are available or you are not sure what factors to consider, we can help you make an informed decision.
