Oklahoma City Elder Abuse Attorney

No one deserves to suffer abuse, especially not our elders. As people age, they become quick targets of those who may wish to exploit the aging process. If you or an elder you love has been victimized by elder abuse, you have the right to pursue compensation with the aid of an Oklahoma City elder abuse lawyer. You and your family need a fierce legal advocate who can secure you the compensation and justice you deserve.

Since 2014, the attorneys at Fulmer Sill have been working together to empower injured people and secure compensation and justice alike for thousands of clients. Based in the heart of Oklahoma City’s Midtown District, we understand how the court systems here work. Our team can fight for your rights and interests from the moment you walk through our office doors. We believe that no one, no matter their age, should be subjected to abuse, and we know how to hold your abuser accountable for their actions.

Defining Elder Abuse in Oklahoma City

Elder abuse, as defined by the World Health Organization, occurs when a single or repeated act or a lack of necessary action causes harm or distress to an elderly individual. It becomes legal negligence when there is an expectation of duty, trust, or care, which is then violated. As of 2017, there were 800,259 members of the Oklahoma population who were 60 years of age or older. With growing population rates, this number is only expected to increase. According to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services by 2034 the population of elderly Oklahomans is projected to increase by 21.3% with adults over age 60 are expected to outnumber children in Oklahoma for the first time.

Unfortunately, with this rise in the elderly population comes more instances of elder abuse. Another unfortunate reality is that many of these cases will go unreported due to fear or health issues, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. A wide range of behaviors can constitute elder abuse, including:

Physical Abuse

Physical elder abuse can occur in OKC when an individual causes pain or injury to a senior. This may include:

• Hitting
• Pushing
• Punching
• Kicking
• Improper or abusive use of restraints
• Rough treatment, such as yanking
• Any other behavior that may result in the elderly individual suffering physical harm

Though this tends to be more common in nursing homes and care facilities, it can also happen at home from an in-home caregiver.

Physical abuse often leaves visible bruising or marks on the skin of the victim, but not always. That is why having an attorney on your side can be crucial, as they can work to investigate the situation and uncover evidence to support your claim.

Sexual Abuse

In Oklahoma, sexual abuse occurs when there are any unwanted sexual advances, contact, or even exposure of the victim. If an elderly individual experiences sexual contact and they did not or could not offer their consent, this can be considered elder sexual abuse.

For many elders, Alzheimer’s and dementia are common issues. In fact, 71,000 people in the state over 65 live with some version of Alzheimer’s. These kinds of conditions can make it impossible for elders to offer their consent to sexual activities.

Emotional Abuse

Emotional elder abuse can be just as harmful and damaging as physical abuse. This occurs whenever a perpetrator causes an elderly individual emotional distress or pain. This might include the use of verbal threats, insults, isolation, or humiliation. Emotional abuse tends to have a profound impact on the mental health of the victims.

Emotional abuse can cause the victim to suffer other conditions as well, including anxiety, depression, and a failing sense of self-esteem or self-worth. Even if no physical harm befalls a victim, they still deserve compensation and justice.

Financial Abuse

Financial elder abuse occurs when someone, usually a caregiver or relative, illegally or improperly uses an elder individual’s property, monetary funds, or assets for their own gain and without the elder’s consent. This can include theft, fraud, or acts of coercion.

If you or an elderly loved one is suffering from financial abuse, it is vital that you speak with an attorney immediately. They can take legal steps to protect you.

FAQs

What Are the Signs of Emotional Elder Abuse?

Depending on the nature of the emotional elder abuse, several signs may indicate it is taking place. Your senior loved one might be a victim of elder abuse if they:

• Are suddenly more easily provoked to anger.
• No longer make eye contact.
• Suffer from mood swings.
• Have changes in their sleeping or eating habits.
• Attempt self-harm.
• Stop taking part in activities they used to enjoy.

Why Should I File an Elder Abuse Claim in Oklahoma?

There are several reasons why an elder abuse claim should be filed in Oklahoma. First, you can hold the liable parties responsible and keep them from harming anyone else. Additionally, a claim can secure compensation for the harm the elder suffered, including any medical bills or pain and suffering damages.

What Are Some Quick Stats on Elder Abuse?

According to the National Council on Aging, elderly women are more likely to suffer abuse than men. Additionally, at least one out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 will suffer from some kind of elder abuse. Unfortunately, elder abuse often goes unreported, with one study showing that only one case out of nearly 24 will actually be reported.

What Are the Physical Signs of Elder Abuse?

There are several physical signs of elder abuse. The most common can include:

• Any unexplained cuts, bruises, or fractures
• The need for frequent hospital visits
• Certain behavioral changes, like depression, anxiety, or withdrawal
• Suffering from sudden fearfulness or agitation
• Having poor personal hygiene
• Showing signs of malnutrition
• Experiencing sudden and unexplainable financial changes

Protect Your Senior Loved One With an OKC Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

If you or a senior loved one is being taken advantage of or abused in Oklahoma City, the team at Fulmer Sill can represent you. We pride ourselves on our team’s ability to work together, and we can advocate for you and your family throughout your case. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about our legal services.