In order to address the unfortunate abuse of our aging population, California enacted the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA). Under this series of laws, an elder adult, dependent adult, or the family of the elder or dependent adult may be entitled to compensation for what is termed “elder or dependent adult abuse.” Such abuse can take many forms, and can include emotional and verbal abuse, financial abuse, threats, and medical abuse by a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or even a hospital.
EADACPA was designed to discourage abuse of our elderly population, and provides for some enhanced remedies, including survival of emotional and physical suffering and attorney’s fees expended to bring the claim. Some examples or signs of possible nursing home or skilled nursing home abuse may include the appearance of decubitus ulcers (skin breakdown), severe dehydration, extreme weight loss, improper bathroom hygiene, unnecessary restraints, repeated falls or other safety violations, excessive medicating, abnormal bruising, and unusual social withdrawal or anxiety.
If you or your loved one has experienced any form of elder abuse, you may be entitled to relief under this California statutory scheme, and we help. Feel free to contact us for an initial consultation and evaluation.