Elderly Abuse

s the most wonderful time of the year is upon us, people are making plans for family get-togethers. For many, nothing is more important than family. The matriarchs and patriarchs are aging and are no longer able to care for themselves. Occasionally, elderly family members will go on to live with family; but it may not be a feasible option for others. In many cases, families have entrusted nursing homes and assisted living establishments to care for their aging loved ones. While this is a very difficult decision for all involved, it should be all well within their minds that the elderly family member at the nursing home is getting quality care from the staff.

In some very unfortunate circumstances, residents of nursing homes and assisted living establishments are abused. The State of South Carolina has enacted a law (SC Code Section 43-35-5) to protect the elderly against these horrific crimes. Abuse cannot be simplified under one definition; this is why the law is divided into six parts: physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse and neglect Intentional elderly abuse can cause permanent physical and/or mental damage; but worse is the neglect that causes injuries and even death.

Elderly abuse is an inexcusable act, which is why our State has implemented these important legal protections. If a member of your family has been a victim of elderly abuse the professionals at Traywick & Traywick can help.