Undue Influence or Financial Abuse

Elderly individuals may suffer from hearing loss, dementia, or other issues that make them easy prey for the unscrupulous. If you feel a relative or close friend is using some form of undue influence against a loved one to obtain money or persuade him or her to change estate planning documents, we can help. Whether your loved one has a medical condition, mental impairment, or diminished capacity, undue influence should not be tolerated.

You should also be aware of the potential for elder financial abuse. When someone, usually a relative or beneficiary, inappropriately pressurizes your elderly loved one to give him or her money or rewrite their will or trust, it may constitute elder financial abuse. Our lawyers can help you take steps to protect your elderly loved one’s rights, including having a trusted individual appointed as conservator.

Care or Physical Abuse

Whether it occurs in a nursing home or at home, physical elder abuse and neglect are serious matters that should not be taken lightly. Neglect may be intentional or unintentional, but it can lead to prolonged suffering if the matter is not addressed promptly. Elder abuse can be physical, mental, verbal, psychological, or sexual, and it can include intimidation, corporal punishment, and unreasonable seclusion. Some examples of abuse injuries can include:

• Dehydration and malnutrition (which may also be sign of neglect)

• Sores from excessive restraint

• Memory or functional problems from over-sedation

• Broken bones (fractures), abrasions, and lacerations from punishment

• Fear and emotional distress

• Loss of trust

• Sexual assault

If you believe an elderly person is being physically abused and cannot protect him or herself, call us at Nowakowski Legal PLLC to see how we can assist you or your loved one.