Elder abuse or neglect cases can be civil or criminal. In either one, the case may be relate to pressure ulcers and failure to turn the patient to prevent these wounds. In criminal cases, elder abuse is often from residences where a family member or caregiver is charged with abuse or neglect. We can help sort through the medical records in these cases and determine how/if the victim’s medical conditions contributed to their condition. For example, in neglect and wasting, the victim may have conditions that prevent them from eating or absorbing nutrients.
Other criminal cases may be related to physical trauma, and there are many conditions and medications that cause the elderly to bruise or fracture easily. We can assess skin integrity to determine susceptibility to skin tears as well. For more information about what services we can offer in these cases, click here.