Elder abuse is more common than many people realize—and it can take many forms. Whether it involves physical harm, financial exploitation, neglect, or emotional mistreatment, the abuse of an older loved one is both heartbreaking and unacceptable. 

At Loew Law Group, our elder abuse attorneys are here to help you hold wrongdoers accountable and protect your loved one’s well-being. We represent families throughout San Mateo and nearby communities in cases involving elder abuse and financial exploitation. If you suspect that someone is taking advantage of a vulnerable older adult, it’s time to take a closer look. Contact us today to get started.

Depending on the circumstances, we can:

  • Seek financial compensation for damages, including emotional distress and out-of-pocket losses
  • Request punitive damages in cases involving willful or malicious conduct
  • Work with medical experts, investigators, and law enforcement when necessary

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any act that causes harm or poses a serious risk of harm to someone aged 65 or older. The abuse may be intentional or result from neglect, but the consequences are real and often long-lasting. The most common forms of elder abuse we see in San Mateo include:

Physical Abuse

This includes hitting, pushing, slapping, pinching, or restraining a senior. Unexplained bruises, fractures, or other injuries are often signs of abuse. Physical abuse may happen in a private home or care facility and is sometimes hidden under false explanations. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

Words can hurt just as much as actions. Emotional abuse may include yelling, threatening, humiliating, or isolating an older adult. It can also involve controlling behavior, like preventing a senior from seeing friends or speaking with loved ones. Over time, this type of mistreatment can lead to anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.

Neglect

Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide necessary care, including food, water, medical attention, hygiene, or a safe living environment. Signs of neglect might include malnutrition, bedsores, unsanitary conditions, or missed doctor’s appointments. Whether intentional or due to carelessness, neglect is a form of abuse.

Financial Abuse

Financial exploitation is one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse. Seniors are often targeted because of their savings, property, or social security benefits. Some common tactics include:

  • Coercing or manipulating an elder into changing a will or trust
  • Misusing power of attorney to transfer assets
  • Making unauthorized withdrawals from bank accounts
  • Using undue influence to obtain gifts or loans

If you’ve noticed sudden changes in your loved one’s finances or unusual transactions, don’t ignore them. We help families in San Mateo investigate and take legal action when financial elder abuse is suspected.

Protecting San Mateo’s Older Adults

No one deserves to suffer in silence. At Loew Law Group, we believe in protecting those who may not be able to protect themselves. That means listening carefully, asking the right questions, and taking swift action when abuse is uncovered.

We proudly serve families across San Mateo and the Bay Area, whether the abuse occurred in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or private residence. Every situation is different, but our goal is always the same: to stop the harm and hold the responsible party accountable.

Talk to a San Mateo Elder Abuse Attorney

If something feels off—a change in your loved one’s mood, finances, or physical condition—it’s worth investigating. A conversation can lead to answers, and answers can lead to action.

Call Loew Law Group today to speak with a San Mateo elder abuse attorney. We’re here to help you protect your family, and we offer confidential consultations to guide you forward.

FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for filing an elder abuse claim in California?

The timelines can vary significantly depending on whether the claim involves personal injury, medical malpractice, or financial fraud. Because these deadlines are strict, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as you suspect mistreatment to ensure your right to legal action is protected.

Can I take legal action if my loved one has already passed away?

Yes. In California, “survival actions” allow the estate or certain heirs to pursue a lawsuit for abuse or neglect that occurred while the individual was alive. This allows families to seek justice and hold facilities accountable even after a loved one is gone.

Is a nursing home responsible for the actions of a single “bad” employee?

Generally, yes. Facilities are responsible for the hiring, training, and supervision of their staff. If a facility fails to perform a proper background check or ignores signs of employee misconduct, they can be held liable for the resulting harm under the theory of corporate negligence.