What are the chances elders in Peoria will fall victim to scams?
Scams are a form of abuse that is frequently targeted at older adults. These scams can affect their quality of life, and in some cases, their ability to pay for necessities like food, medical care, or housing. This report gives more information about the scope of the problem in Illinois.
Illinois had 4,227 elderly fraud victims in 2020.
Resulting in $ 32,143,412 total losses.
There are several ways an elder care attorney in Peoria or Bloomington can help to protect your older loved one from scammers. By keeping an extra set of eyes on your older adult's finances, it can be easier to notice irregularities. They can also act to recover stolen funds in the event of fraud. In some cases, they could act as a guardian or conservator and assume control of your senior loved one's finances for their best interests.
What are some signs of elder abuse that caregivers in Peoria should look for?
Because older adults tend to be more isolated than other age groups, their abuse often goes unnoticed or unreported. This makes it important to understand the signs to look for if you are worried about your aging loved one being abused. The National Center on Elder Abuse provides more information about elder abuse and its signs.
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
Abuse can have a significant impact on your older adult, and it can be difficult to watch them go through it as a loved one. The assistance of an expert in Peoria elder law can help you and your senior make decisions that reduce the risks of abuse. Likewise, they can pursue recourse if abuse does occur. In addition, they can help your older adult prepare end-of-life documents, wills and trusts, or advance medical directives.
How can I help the senior in my life find an elder care attorney in Peoria?
Setting your senior loved one up with an expert in Peoria elder law is about finding a reliable individual. Because they can work with your senior on a number of sensitive topics, it is essential to find an attorney that is trustworthy. Make sure to ask for references from prospective lawyers, and disregard anyone who is not willing to give them. Ask references about the way the attorney treats older adults and their competence in the key aspects of elder law. Finding an attorney who is experienced in the types of challenges that elder law presents is also essential to helping your senior feel comfortable and supported.
For more information about how to search for an attorney, check out our comprehensive guide to choosing an elder care lawyer. This guide has details about finding a lawyer and the criteria to consider as you search.
Elder care attorneys in Peoria
Helping your older adult age safely can be easier with the assistance of a legal expert. Whether providing counsel to help your senior avoid dangerous situations, drawing up essential documents, or keeping an eye on their finances, a Peoria elder care attorney can offer vital support. Seasons offers detailed listings and guides free of charge to help you find a lawyer who is a good fit for your elderly loved one's needs and situation.
