ATTORNEY NEWSLETTER
Isolation Protects Seniors From Virus But Exposes Them To Other Risks
Isolation Increases Vulnerability To Abuse
Elder Abuse Cases Rising Throughout California During Pandemic
Many seniors have elected to self-isolate to protect themselves from COVID-19. For institutionalized seniors the isolation is enforced by nursing homes and facilities. Protection from the virus is essential but the truth is that isolation isolation is a double-edged sword that protects from the virus but may be a breeding ground for abuse. APS units throughout California report a surge in reported cases of elder abuse and since most elder abuse goes unreported the real numbers are likely much higher. Evans Law Firm, Inc. represent seniors here in San Francisco and Alameda County and throughout the State of California victimized by any sort of financial or physical elder abuse from any source. If you or an older loved one has been abused, call our elder abuse litigators at (415)441-8669 and we can help.
Self-Isolation By Seniors Can Be Dangerous, Even Fatal
Self-isolation by seniors is understandable during this difficult period. But isolation may lead not only to abuse by strangers and caregivers but also skipping medical check-ups, not getting to the grocery store for food or the pharmacy for re-fills, or even outside to walk around for a little exercise. Maybe the senior won’t allow a caregiver to some and help them out of fear of contracting COVID-19. Despite good intentions, this is the other edge of the sword – self-isolation can be deadly. According to research published by the New York Academy of Sciences, self-isolation is “as strong a risk factor for morbidity and mortality as smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and high blood pressure.”
If you have a senior loved one who may be self-isolating right now, give them all the safe help and motivation for safe, connective activities with the outside world right now. That might be through weekly family Zooms, safe visits with masks and gloves and social distancing, and phone networks that many agencies, churches, and synagogues have set up now to check in frequently on older persons. Monitor their bank statements and financial records even if you can’t be in the same room. If you see anything suspicious call counsel like the elder abuse lawyers at Evans Law Firm right away.
Contact Us
Ingrid M. Evans and the other elder abuse attorneys at Evans Law Firm, Inc. represent families and victims of elder abuse in San Francisco, Alameda County, and throughout California to hold accountable at law any persons or businesses responsible for the abuse. Ingrid and our other elder law attorneys know how to investigate these cases and pursue all remedies available to the victim and their families. For a consultation call our elder abuse litigators at (415) 441-8669, or by email at info@evanslaw.com.
