Red Flags for Nursing Home Financial Abuse
When families think about abuse and neglect at Oklahoma nursing homes, they are most likely thinking of physical abuse and neglect. These are serious issues that often go underreported, but they are not the only threats to elderly patients. Many residents of Oklahoma nursing homes are at risk of being taken advantage of financially as well.
Financial abuse and exploitation is the illegal and unauthorized use of money or personal property. Examples of financial abuse that can occur at any Oklahoma nursing home include:
- Theft of jewelry, cash, and household goods
- Misuse of personal checks or credit cards
- Forging of the patient’s signature
- Identity theft
- Phony charities
- Investment fraud
- Altering a legal document such as a will
When an elderly person becomes a victim of physical abuse, he or she may show physical signs of abuse. When a patient is neglected, he or she may rapidly lose weight, appear malnourished, or suffer from bedsores. The warning signs of nursing home financial abuse can be subtler and more difficult to notice.
One way to watch for these signs is to carefully monitor your loved one’s finances. If money is being withdrawn, it could be a sign of wrongdoing. Keep an eye on deeds, wills, and trusts. Regularly inspect the room for stolen items. Inquire about who your loved one is talking to and if he or she has made any investments. All irregular and unexplained changes in finances could be a sign of nursing home financial abuse.
If you suspect that abuse is taking place, you can speak to management about your concerns. You can also inquire about your rights with the state ombudsman. If you are convinced that financial abuse has occurred, report it to local law enforcement authorities. File a police report and obtain a copy for your records. In addition, you can also file a civil claim against the nursing facility and other at-fault parties to seek compensation for the damages.
The Oklahoma nursing home abuse lawyers at Maples Law Firm help protect elderly victims and their families. If you or a loved one have been abused or neglected at an Oklahoma nursing home, please contact us at (405) 705-5050 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.