Many older individuals reach stages in life when they can no longer care for themselves. In some cases, it may be necessary for Ohio courts to appoint a guardian for an elderly individual to ensure that he or she receives proper care. Unfortunately, not all people appointed to this role make care their priority.
It is a sad reality that elder abuse and neglect continue to take place. Older people could face physical and emotional abuse, financial exploitation and neglect from those who are supposed to ensure their well-being. Though acting as a guardian can certainly be stressful at times, it does not mean that a person in this position has the right to harm the person in his or her care or to neglect necessary care responsibilities.
Some people may worry that their elderly loved ones are not receiving the proper care, but it can be difficult to know for sure. If a loved one has unexplained bruises, broken bones, red marks on his or her skin, broken glasses or other issues, those details could point to physical abuse. If a loved one becomes withdrawn or depressed or even if a person witnesses the caregiver making threats or belittling the loved one, emotional abuse may be occurring.
It can sometimes be tempting to brush off such concerns as overreactions, but it is important to remember that an elderly person who needs a guardian likely cannot speak up for him or herself or may be afraid to. If Ohio residents believe that a caregiver is not treating a loved one appropriately, it may be necessary to take legal action to have that person removed from the position. This task is not always easy, so it is wise for those with such concerns to contact elder law attorneys about their legal options.
