Elder abuse is an issue that affects older adults across the U.S., and Butler County, Pennsylvania, is no exception. Elder abuse in Butler County can include neglect and abandonment, physical and sexual abuse, and financial exploitation. With a growing 65-plus population, it's more important than ever that Butler County has protections in place for its older residents.
If you or someone you love is a victim of elder abuse in Butler County, the LLF Law Firm Team can help. Reach out to us at 888-535-3686 or complete this confidential contact form, and we'll be in touch.
Elder Abuse in Butler County
Pennsylvania saw an alarming increase in elder abuse incidents between 2018 and 2022, with deaths increasing by 91 percent. This accounted specifically for deaths that happened while an elder abuse investigation was in progress.
While Butler County doesn't publish elder abuse statistics, it's working hard to protect its older citizens. Protective Services offers a 24/7 hotline for reporting suspected elder abuse, as well as resources to help residents recognize the signs.
Reporting Elder Abuse in Butler County
If you see signs of elder abuse in Butler County, your first course of action is to stop further damage. If you can remove the older adult from the situation, do so. Whether you can or not, though, it's important to report your suspicions to the appropriate agency.
You have two options for reporting elder abuse in Butler County:
- Agency on Aging: This is the local Older Adult Protective Services (OAPS) office covering Butler County. Trained staff members are on hand 24/7 to take reports. You can reach them by calling 724-283-6955.
- Elder Abuse Hotline: A toll-free, statewide hotline is the other option for reporting elder abuse in Butler County. You can call 1-800-490-8505 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Agency on Aging has a physical presence in Butler County and hosts a variety of programs. The offices are located at 111 Sunnyview Circle Building 3, Suite 101 in Butler.
Understanding the Reporting Process
In order to investigate suspected elder abuse, agencies will need some basic information. To report elder abuse in Butler County, you'll need to provide:
- The name, age, and address of the victim.
- Details about the suspected abuse, including the dates and times of each incident.
- Names or descriptions of all suspected perpetrators.
- Previous actions taken to protect the older adult.
To provide as much detail as possible, it may be necessary to keep meticulous records of everything you've witnessed. But even if you don't have details, don't hesitate to reach out. Simply offer as much information as you can.
Legal Protections for Elder Abuse
Reporting elder abuse is an important first step, but investigations can take a while. It's crucial to safeguard older adults from future abuse. A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order will restrict a perpetrator's access to the older adult.
Each Pennsylvania county has its own process. Butler County PFA orders are issued at the Butler County Government Center in the domestic relations office. You'll be issued a temporary order and within 10 business days, you'll appear in front of a judge for a final order.
Except in the event of an emergency, temporary orders are only issued Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. After 10:30 a.m., a staff member will determine whether you qualify for an emergency order. The emergency order is only in place until the next business day when you can be issued a temporary order between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
The LLF Law Firm can help with both temporary and final restraining orders. We'll walk you through the process, letting you know what to expect, and work with you on completing the necessary paperwork.
The LLF Law Firm's Commitment to Combating Elder Abuse
At the LLF Law Firm, we understand the impact abuse can have on older adults and their loved ones. For that reason, we're dedicated to helping those suffering from elder abuse, both in ensuring they're protected through PFAs and supporting them throughout legal proceedings.
In addition to legal support and protection, we also serve as a resource for elder abuse victims and their families. We can point you toward outlets where you can get support locally and advise you on taking steps to ensure older adults are in a safe environment moving forward.
Signs of Elder Abuse
It's important that loved ones recognize the signs of elder abuse early to reduce the impact. Here are some signs to look for with various types of abuse.
- Physical abuse: An older adult being physically abused will sometimes show clear signals. Bruising, scratches, burns, and fractures are immediate telltale signs. However, some symptoms aren't visible, and in those cases, an abuse victim may exhibit fearfulness around caregivers.
- Emotional abuse: This type of abuse is tougher to detect. Sudden behavioral changes, like withdrawing from others, could signal that an older adult is being emotionally abused.
- Sexual abuse: Bruising in specific areas and fearfulness around certain caregivers could be a sign someone is suffering from sexual abuse.
- Financial exploitation: If an older adult is being financially exploited, you may see a sudden inability to pay bills, missing valuables, or unexplained withdrawals from the elder's bank account.
- Neglect: Symptoms like malnutrition, poor hygiene, or ongoing unresolved medical issues can indicate neglect.
If you're a family member of an older adult, keeping an eye on financial accounts and regularly checking in can help you spot abuse early. For those who hire home healthcare providers, background checks and referrals can help you find professionals who will take care of your loved one.
Legal Help with Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is serious, so it's important to take action immediately if it's happening to you or someone you love. The LLF Law Firm Team has years of experience with elder abuse cases and can help you with protective orders and other legal matters. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or complete this confidential contact form with some details of your situation, and we'll be in touch.
