World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is acknowledged today on Wednesday June 15, 2011. And it is recognized that abuse of the elderly is not only a current problem, but unfortunately, a growing one.

In California, there are a staggering number of reported and unreported cases of elderly abuse that total approx. 160,000 a year. According to statistics compiled by Elder Abuse Daily, Los Angeles county alone was responsible for over 25% of all cases in California. And given the current proposed budget cuts of over $1.9 Billion dollars from the health and human services programs by the state for fiscal years 2011-2012; cases of abuse are only likely to rise given the lack of resources for care that add stresses to family members, nursing home staff and in-home care specialists.

In April of this year, The Senate Office of Oversight and Outcomes, found that California is one of the few states that does NOT regulate in-home care agencies. This puts the elderly population at severe risk of theft and abuse. Many clients are not even aware that they have a right to request background checks for any potential caregiver. This is especially necessary as more than a quarter of caregivers accused of or convicted of abuse crimes had actually already committed prior offences! While it is hopeful that legislation will become law for mandatory regulation at the agency level, it is imperative that you or your agent appointed by Power of Attorney for Health Care take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and well being.

Elder abuse is a very serious crime that occurs in many different forms. It is not to be taken lightly. If you know of someone that is being abused or abusing someone else, you must report this activity to your local law enforcement or Adult Protection Services agency immediately.

Elder abuse cases can be difficult to handle both emotionally and legally. However, a compassionate and knowledgeable Los Angeles elder abuse lawyer of the Law Offices of David A. Shapiro are here to serve and help you through this difficult time. Please contact us for a free professional consultation.

*This blog entry was not written by an Attorney and does not constitute legal advice.