Anaheim Elder Abuse Attorney

Do you believe your elderly loved one has been the victim of abuse or neglect? Tragically, elder abuse is more common than many people realize - and it can have devastating consequences. Older adults may be victimized by caregivers in their home, at an adult day program, or in a long-term care facility. The perpetrators may be family, paid caregivers, medical providers, and facilities that prioritize profits over safety, staffing, and oversight.

If you're facing this difficult situation, an experienced Anaheim elder abuse attorney at Berman & Riedel, LLP can help.

We are recognized as one of California’s leading elder abuse litigation firms. Contact our office today to speak with an attorney during a free case evaluation.

What Qualifies as Elder Abuse in Anaheim?

Elder abuse is any form of mistreatment or inaction that causes harm - or the risk of harm - to an elderly person. Abuse may be committed by caregivers, family members, facility staff, or anyone entrusted with the care of a vulnerable adult.

Under California law, elder abuse includes the following:

• Physical abuse: Inflicting physical harm, using unnecessary physical restraint, or depriving an elder of basic needs
• Emotional abuse: Verbal attacks, humiliation, isolation, or threats
• Sexual abuse: Unwanted sexual contact, exposure, or coercion
• Financial abuse: Theft, manipulation, or financial exploitation of an elder’s assets
• Neglect: Failing to provide a dependent adult's or facility resident's basic needs, including food, shelter, hygiene, and medical care
• Abandonment: Deserting a dependent elder who requires care and supervision

Neglect or abuse can have a devastating and lasting effect on an older adult's physical, psychological, and social well-being. Victims may suffer injuries that cause chronic pain, mobility challenges, and the loss of independence. They may experience depression, social withdrawal, fear, and hopelessness. 

Victims also face an increased risk of serious health complications and premature death. Mistreatment may also result in wrongful death, whether it's through physical abuse, neglecting their medical needs, or injuries caused by fall hazards or understaffing.

Two important laws provide the foundation for pursuing elder abuse cases in California:

• The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA) allows victims and families to take civil action for abuse or neglect of adults 65 and older. This law provides enhanced remedies in an injury claim, including attorneys' fees and damages in wrongful death claims that are not normally available.
• Penal Code 368 makes it a criminal offense to harm, neglect, or financially exploit an elderly adult with enhanced penalties.

If your loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect, taking legal action may be the best way to protect them and hold the responsible parties accountable.

What Are Common Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect?

Elderly victims may not always be able or willing to report when they are being mistreated. That’s why it’s crucial for family members to stay alert to the warning signs. Common indicators of abuse or neglect include:

• Unexplained injuries like bruises, burns, or broken bones
• Poor hygiene, dirty clothing, or unsanitary living conditions
• Untreated bedsores or other medical issues
• Repeated falls
• Unexplained weight loss or signs of malnutrition or dehydration
• Sudden emotional withdrawal, fear, or depression
• Missing personal items or unexpected changes in financial accounts

If you notice any of these signs in an elderly individual, don’t wait. Speak up and take action to ensure your loved one’s safety.

How to Report Elder Abuse in Anaheim CA

Reporting abuse not only protects your loved one: it may prevent others from being harmed. The correct agencies to contact depend on whether the senior is living in the community or a care facility, and which type of care facility is involved.

Along with reporting abuse, we encourage families to seek legal representation. An Anaheim elder abuse attorney at Berman & Riedel, LLP can help you understand your options and take immediate action. Without legal help, proving abuse can be challenging, especially when victims are unable to speak up or a care provider conceals evidence of negligence.

Here's how to report elderly abuse or neglect, depending on the risk level and where it happened.

Emergencies: Call 911

Always call 911 for emergency response when you believe someone faces a risk of imminent harm. For example:

• Medical emergencies
• Crime that has just happened, is currently happening, or you believe may happen again soon
• Serious safety concerns

Suspected Abuse or Neglect in Any Setting: Anaheim Police Department

You can report suspected neglect, abuse, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult occurring in any type of setting in the City of Anaheim to the Anaheim Police Department. Call the non-emergency line at (714) 765-1900 to make a report or request police response.

Contact Adult Protective Services (APS) for Elder Abuse Cases in the Community

Orange County Adult Protective Services (APS) investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or self-neglect of dependent adults and elders aged 60 and older in one of the following living environments:

• Private homes
• Apartments
• Hospitals
• Hotels
• Homeless or facing homelessness

You can report suspected abuse by calling the 24-hour hotline at (800) 451-5155.

Abuse, Neglect, or Care Concerns in Long-Term Care Facilities: Long-Term Care Ombudsman

A long-term care ombudsman is an advocate for older adults in licensed long-term care facilities, such as board and care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and assisted living facilities. An ombudsman can investigate reports of neglect, abuse, and violations of a resident's rights. They can also help with resolving complaints about care, help seniors and families reach a resolution, provide referrals, and more.

You can contact the Orange County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at 1 (800) 300-6222 or through the 24-hour state CRISIS line: 1 (800) 231-4024.

Elder Abuse in Assisted Living Facilities & Adult Day Programs: Department of Social Services (CDSS)

The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) within the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) licenses and inspects residential care facilities for the elderly (RCFEs). These are facilities that may provide housing and some level of care and assistance, but not 24-hour skilled nursing, wound care, and more intensive care.

The CCLD investigates abuse or neglect in these settings:

• Assisted living facilities
• Board and care homes
• Community care facilities
• Congregate housing
• Adult day programs
• Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) – except at the skilled nursing level

You can submit a report online or call 1-844-LET-US-NO (1-844-538-8766).

Report Home Health Agency & Nursing Home Abuse to the Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is responsible for licensing and regulating health care facilities such as:

• Nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities (SNFs)
• General acute hospitals
• Intermediate care facilities (ICFs)
• Subacute care facilities
• Adult day health care
• Home health organizations (HHOs) - Skilled clinical care like wound care and physical therapy performed by licensed nurses, certified Home Health Aides (HHAs), therapists, and other professionals

Report neglect or abuse of an elderly resident or patient through the Cal Health Find portal. Investigations involving imminent harm, serious bodily harm, or a threat of death are required to be completed within 90 days.

The local district office can also accept reports in person or by phone.

CDPH Orange County District Office​, 681 S. Parker Street, Suite 200, Orange, CA 92868 (714) 567-2906

Complaints involving Home Health Aides can be submitted to the message center by calling (916) 492-8232 or the main number at (916) 445-4423, or using the complaint form.

Elder Abuse Cases Involving Home Care Organizations (HCOs): Department of Social Services (DSS)

A Home Care Organization (HCO) provides non-medical, in-home supportive services. Home Care Aides (HCAs) may assist with daily activities of living, housekeeping, meal preparation, and medication reminders.

HCOs are regulated by the Department of Social Services (DSS). The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) investigates complaints, which can be submitted online or by calling 844-LET-US-NO (844-538-8766).

Resources for Seniors & Caregivers in Anaheim

Here are resources for older adults, caregivers, and families in Anaheim and the greater Orange County area.

• Anaheim Older Adult Hubs: Several senior centers in the city offer daily activities, workshops, and classes for active adults
• Anaheim Senior Citizen’s Club (A.S.C.C.): Nonprofit organization for older adults to enjoy social and recreational opportunities, including travel, daily activities, dances, and lunches
• Senior Wheels: Transportation service for adults 60 and older within a 10-mile radius of their home and to congregate meal sites, medical appointments, shopping, and activities
• OC ACCESS: Shared-ride bus service for residents with cognitive or physical limitations
• California’s Aging Resource Guide: News stories and guides to programs and services for older adults
• Orange County Office on Aging: Meal programs, family caregiver services, assistance, and referrals
• CalOptima Health PACE: Support for adults 55+ who qualify for skilled nursing care but want to remain in their home with transportation, meals, personal care, medical care, and activities at their PACE Center
• Caregiver Resource Center OC: Nonprofit offering individualized supportive services for family caregivers, including referrals, respite planning, educational classes, and support groups

How Our Anaheim Elder Abuse Lawyers Can Help Your Family

At Berman & Riedel, LLP, we have established a reputation across California for our tireless advocacy for the most vulnerable residents. As one of the largest elder abuse law firms in the state, we have a proven track record with millions recovered for elder victims and their families. You can see our elder abuse case results here.

Here's how an Anaheim elder abuse attorney at our firm can help you protect a loved one and seek justice:

• Investigate how your family member was harmed and how it occurred
• Identify liable parties who were negligent or abusive
• Review medical records, interview witnesses, and work closely with medical experts to prove liability and the harm your loved one suffered
• Document your loved one’s emotional distress, pain, mental anguish, and the other effects of the abuse they suffered
• Seek full compensation for medical expenses, mental and physical suffering, future care, and transfer costs
• Fight for punitive damages when available if your case goes to trial
• Negotiate aggressively for a reasonable settlement - or file a lawsuit and present your case at court

Whether your case involves a vulnerable elderly resident in a care facility or a loved one who has been abused at home, we are prepared to pursue full and fair compensation for medical bills, anguish, and other losses. Let us fight to protect your family’s legal rights and your loved one's well-being.

Call our law firm today for a free case evaluation with an Anaheim elder abuse attorney to discuss your case and the next steps to take.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Anaheim Elder Abuse Attorney at Berman & Riedel, LLP

If your loved one has suffered abuse, neglect, or exploitation, don’t wait to act. Speak with an Anaheim elder abuse attorney today to learn your legal options. At Berman & Riedel, LLP, we are committed to holding negligent facilities and abusive caregivers accountable. We will help you preserve your loved one's dignity, get them the care they need, and seek justice so this doesn't happen to someone else.

We represent elder abuse victims and families throughout Orange County and the rest of California. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you do not pay legal fees out of pocket. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced elder abuse lawyer in Anaheim. Let us help your family get justice and peace of mind.