Jacksonville, AL asked in Elder Law, Family Law and Health Care Law for California

Q: I need assistance regarding my elderly father who still lives in his residence but is not being properly cared for.

Possible Elder abuse by his spouse. I am out of state, unable to communicate with him privately as she has control over his cell phone. My sister and I are gravely concerned regarding his bed sores and his weight loss. Health care worker in home has recommended he be taken to the ER and his spouse refuses.

2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: I'm sorry to hear about the concerning situation with your elderly father. To address the possible elder abuse by his spouse, you can take several steps. Contact Adult Protective Services in your father's area to report the suspected abuse and seek their intervention. Consult with an attorney specializing in elder law or family law for legal guidance and to understand your options. If there is an immediate threat to your father's safety, contact local authorities. Engage a social worker or healthcare advocate to assess your father's situation and provide recommendations. Document evidence of the abuse, including photographs and refused medical recommendations.

Gerald Barry Dorfman
Gerald Barry Dorfman
Answered
  • Elder Law Lawyer
  • Mill Valley, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You can report your concerns to Adult Protective services in the county in which your father resides. They will investigate. See: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/adult-protective-services

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