Elder Abuse

Two people holding hands in comfort

What Are Mandated Reporting Laws for Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is an all-too-common problem. Whether at home or in nursing homes and other care facilities, our most vulnerable elders are at risk. Sadly, officials believe elder abuse is largely underreported. In fact, only 1 in 23 elder abuse cases are reported to authorities, according to estimates from the U.S. Department of Justice. Additionally,… Read More

An older man sits sadly and rests his hands on a cane

Punishments for Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is considered a serious crime, but it often goes unreported. Older adults and their loved ones may be afraid that reporting abuse will lead to worse treatment. Thankfully, there are laws at both the federal and state levels to ensure punishments for elder abuse are carried out. Learn more about what to do… Read More

Holding Hands

Handling Abuse Allegations in Nursing Homes

Nursing home abuse is a serious claim that many people may feel uncomfortable making. However, because nursing home residents are usually frail and often cannot defend themselves, all allegations of abuse must be taken seriously. Learn how to handle abuse allegations in nursing homes and keep your loved one safe. Nursing Home Abuse Allegations: What… Read More

an older African American woman sits in a nursing home and looks at a nurse in the foreground

Racial Disparities in Nursing Home Care

Research has uncovered racial disparities in nursing home care. While the reasons for these inequalities are not always clear, they present a serious public health problem that deserves attention. Racial disparities in nursing home care include higher rates of nursing home abuse and neglect among nonwhite residents. Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has made the situation… Read More

An older woman sits sadly behind a window

What Percentage of Elder Abuse Is Done by Family Members?

Family members commit elder abuse in nearly 6 out of 10 cases, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA). Other studies found that family members are the most common perpetrators of nearly every type of elder abuse. Learn how to keep an older person you love safe. Family and the Problem of Elder Abuse… Read More

an older couple walking down a path outside

World Alzheimer’s Day

World Alzheimer’s Day is celebrated every year on September 21st. Patients, caregivers, and advocates come together and fight for the 50 million people globally who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The organizers hope to use the day as a way to raise awareness of the condition and also to educate public… Read More

elderly man in wheelchair

Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Cases

Because the state of Illinois ranks last in terms of nursing home staffing levels, employees are often overworked and very stressed. This dangerous combination is unfortunately linked with high rates of nursing home abuse in Illinois. Fortunately, those abused in Illinois nursing homes may be able to take legal action. Recent Nursing Home Abuse Cases… Read More

an older woman cowers in fear and covers her face with her hands

Outright Abuse in Nursing Homes

Outright abuse in nursing homes occurs when staff members inflict physical, sexual, or emotional harm to residents. This makes outright abuse slightly different from nursing home neglect, which typically happens when a lack of care leads to harm. Thankfully, those hurt by neglect or outright abuse in nursing homes can pursue justice and compensation. What… Read More

a lawyer sits at a desk with a gavel and legal documents

Litigating Nursing Home Abuse Cases

In some cases, cases of nursing home abuse can lead to litigation. Litigation is the process of filing a lawsuit. Past instances of nursing home litigation led to high payouts for victims, allowing them to afford medical treatment and start the healing process. Below, learn about nursing home litigation and how to take action. How… Read More

Elderly couple holding hands on chair

Overcrowding Led To Higher COVID-Nursing Home Deaths of Black and Hispanic Residents in Illinois

Overcrowding in Illinois nursing homes caused more Hispanic and Black residents to die of COVID-19 when compared to residents of other races, according to a new report. Other studies also found that overcrowding and racial disparities led to more COVID-19 deaths among minorities in nursing homes. New Report Sheds Light on Overcrowding, Racial Disparities in… Read More