How to Take Action When Elder Neglect or Abuse is Suspected in Riverside County

Discovering that an elderly loved one may be a victim of neglect or abuse is a deeply distressing experience. It is crucial to act quickly and decisively to ensure their safety and hold the responsible parties accountable. This guide provides clear steps and resources for residents of Riverside County to take action.

Under California law, legal protections extend to both "elders" and "dependent adults."

• An elder is defined as any person residing in California who is 65 years of age or older.
• A dependent adult is any person between 18 and 64 with physical or mental limitations that restrict their ability to carry out normal activities or protect their rights. This includes individuals who are patients in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or other care homes.

Elder abuse is not always obvious. It can be a single incident or an ongoing pattern of mistreatment. California law defines it as physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, abandonment, isolation, or other treatment resulting in physical harm, pain, or mental suffering.

Be vigilant for common warning signs, including:

• Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, fractures, welts, or cuts that cannot be reasonably explained.
• Bedsores (Decubitus Ulcers): These painful and dangerous sores are almost always a sign of neglect, especially the bed sore reaches a Stage IV.
• Poor Hygiene: Unkempt appearance, dirty clothes, or unsanitary living conditions.
• Dehydration or Malnutrition: Sudden weight loss, constant thirst, or other signs of inadequate food and water intake.
• Sudden Behavioral Changes: Increased fear, anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social interaction.
• Overmedication or Improper Medication: Drowsiness, confusion, or changes in condition that may point to medication errors.

If you believe an elder is in immediate danger, do not hesitate.

• Call 911: In an emergency, contact law enforcement or emergency medical services immediately.
• Adult Protective Services (APS): For urgent concerns about the well-being of an elder, APS is the primary reporting agency. They investigate reports of abuse and neglect. Riverside County APS Hotline: (800) 491-7123

For those in long-term care facilities, several agencies provide oversight and advocacy. Filing a complaint with the correct agency is a critical step in triggering an official investigation.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman: An ombudsman acts as an advocate for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, investigating complaints and resolving issues.

• Riverside County Ombudsman: (800) 231-4024
  • California Department of Public Health (CDPH): For complaints against a skilled nursing facility, contact the local CDPH office.
• Riverside Office of CDPH: (888) 354-9203
  • California Department of Social Services (CDSS): For complaints against a residential care facility for the elderly (RCFE), often called an assisted living facility, contact the local CDSS office.
• Riverside Office of CDSS: (951) 782-4207

While state agencies can investigate and issue citations, they cannot help your family recover compensation for injuries, medical bills, or pain and suffering. If the suspected abuse or neglect occurred in a nursing home or assisted living facility, it is essential to consult with a law firm that specializes in holding these facilities accountable.

The lawyers here at Nursing Home Law Group have decades of experience exclusively dedicated to suing nursing homes and assisted living facilities for abuse and neglect. Our legal team understands the complex regulations governing these facilities and knows how to build a powerful case to prove negligence. We can help you investigate what happened, preserve evidence, and fight for the justice your loved one deserves.

Taking legal action not only provides a path to recovery for your family but also helps prevent the facility from harming other vulnerable residents in the future. Contact Nursing Home Law Group today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.