Susan B. Geffen has been looking out for the elderly for almost 3 decades as an elder law attorney, gerontologist, and former law professor. She is the author of the book, “Take That Nursing Home and Shove It!”
Ms. Geffen is committed to fighting for the rights and dignity of the elderly, who are no longer able to protect themselves from being abused.
It is estimated that over 3.2 million adults are living in nursing homes and other facilities for long term care.
Many of these, estimated around 40 percent will need to go into a nursing home at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, many of these people will encounter some form of abuse or another. These abuses can be difficult to detect, as only one in five cases are reported. Surprisingly, three fourths of the cases are perpetrated by the very people who are supposed to be caring for them. Recently a congressional report concluded a study over a two year period showing that nearly one in three nursing homes were cited for violations that had the potential to cause harm. Almost ten percent actually have violations that caused actual harm or serious injury or death. Due to reports like these, legislatures in all 50 states have passed anti elder-abuse laws but nursing home abuse continues to occur. What are the most common types of nursing home abuses?
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse includes, hitting, pushing, shoving, shaking, striking, slapping, kicking, pinching and burning. Look for signs of bruising which are oen caused by belts, buckles or electrical cords) abrasions, burns or fractures. If you see any signs of injury out of the ordinary you should be concerned.
Sexual Abuse
Surprisingly, this is very common. The most common signs are genital or anal infection, discomfort walking or sitting, or bilateral bruising of inner thighs. You may also notice changes in behavior, like fear or anger.
Psychological Abuse
It can be difficult to detect, but you should look for signs like changes in mood, agitation and fear.
Neglect
A common form of neglect is failure of a caregiver to provide adequate care. This may include not providing medicines, allowing for poor hygiene, inadequate food and not providing for personal safety.
Common signs of neglect include:
- Bed sores
- Rashes
- Untreated injuries or medical problems.
- Poor hygiene
- Hunger Malnutrition or dehydration
- Pallor or sunken cheeks or eyes
- Or lack of clean clothing or bedding
If you suspect elder abuse in a nursing home, an assisted living, or at a home, contact the Law Offices of Susan B. Geffen.
Medi-Cal Planning & Asset Protection
If you are concerned about Medi-Cal recovery, Susan has been successful in helping many elderly adults with the complicated and critical process of Medi-Cal Planning and Asset Protection.
Learn MoreEstate Planning (Living Trusts, Wills)
Susan B. Geffen has helped hundreds of families with their estate planning. Is a Living Trust just for the wealthy? No. If you own a home, have children, wish to leave your assets to whomever you choose, then you should consider having a living trust prepared for you.
Learn MoreProbate
Susan B. Geffen can help you with your probate matter, and provide you with the expert guidance throughout the process.
Learn MoreConservatorships
Many of Susan’s clients ask her about Conservatorships. It is a serious process and it takes a very knowledgeable and experience attorney to evaluate whether or not a conservatorship is realistic and/or necessary.
Learn MoreNursing Home Abuse Attorney
Susan B. Geffen has been looking out for the elderly for almost 3 decades as an elder law attorney, gerontologist, and former law professor. She is the author of the book, “Take That Nursing Home and Shove It!”
Learn MoreTrust Litigation
Disputes often arise after an individual dies and their estate is being administered by the named trustee. This is especially so when when there are substantial amounts of money involved or when family conflict is present.
Learn MoreSpecial Needs Trust Planning
If a disabled individual receives a lump sum inheritance, they will lose all of the public benefits that have supported them during their lifetime until such time that that inheritance is spent down to a qualifying amount, usually $2000.00.
Learn MoreEstate Planning (Living Trusts, Wills) | Hermosa Beach
Susan B. Geffen has helped hundreds of families with their estate planning. Is a Living Trust just for the wealthy? No. If you own a home, have children, wish to leave your assets to whomever you choose, then you should consider having a living trust prepared for you.
Learn MoreEstate Planning (Living Trusts, Wills) | Rolling Hills Estates
Susan B. Geffen has helped hundreds of families with their estate planning. Is a Living Trust just for the wealthy? No. If you own a home, have children, wish to leave your assets to whomever you choose, then you should consider having a living trust prepared for you.
Learn More
Contact Susan
Call Susan today (310) 406-0608 or send her a message by filling out the form below.
Testimonial
Nursing Home Abuse- Susan Geffen saved my life! An elderly relative was the victim of lottery fraud and was acting as the neighborhood ATM, in total over $200,000. Her legal expertise, compassion, and expertise in geriatrics guided the family through a successful process of care management and understanding. At all times the victim and the family trusted Susan and received compassionate support. Her referrals to other professionals were stellar and her reputation among her peers is impeccable. I recommend her without qualification.