Even Star Power Cannot Protect Vulnerable Seniors from Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is a troubling problem that has long been ignored, leaving the nation’s most vulnerable citizens defenseless against physical and psychological abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Seniors are likely to suffer in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and even their own homes.
Even fame and fortune are not enough to protect our senior citizens. 90-year-old entertainment legend Mickey Rooney recently turned the public spotlight on these unacceptable problems when he urged the Senate Special Committee on Aging to crack down on elder abuse.
Rooney gave an emotional performance before the Committee, as he described the abuse he suffered at the hands of close relatives. Rooney passionately explained that his step-son and wife withheld food and mediation, verbally abused him, and took control of his life and assets. He encouraged seniors to come forward and share their stories, because silence only increases the chance that abuse will go undeterred.
Elder abuse cases threaten to overwhelm adult protective service agencies in states such as Illinois that are already overburdened and underfunded. Staffing and training continue to suffer as funding for these services decreases. It is a problem that is not only disturbing, but deadly. Studies show that elder abuse leads to a 300 percent increase in death.
Experienced nursing home lawyers at Pintas & Mullins understand the need to protect our senior citizens and their families and continue to strongly advocate on their behalf.