Americans now live longer than ever before. As people age, they may need assistance with daily routines, including bathing and preparing meals for themselves. This kind of dependency can make them vulnerable to elder abuse -- whether they live in nursing homes, retirement communities, or in their own homes. The Pennsylvania family-law attorneys at the LLF Law Firm represent victims of elder abuse. If you need legal assistance with the care of your elderly loved one, call us today at 888-535-3686 to schedule an appointment, or reach out using our contact form.

Sadly, elder abuse sometimes comes from family members. This may have been the case with beloved TV star John Amos, the beloved star of “Good Times” and other popular movies and television shows of the 1970s, ‘80s, and ‘90s. Amos' children have been publicly fighting over their father's treatment in the weeks leading up to his August 2024 death. Their dispute has escalated to the point that Amos' daughter Shannon has hired a lawyer to investigate the care her father received and the circumstances surrounding his last days.

Shannon has accused her brother K.C. of failing to inform her about their father's declining condition. She alleges that she only learned of her father's death when the information was released to the public. In response, K.C. insists that he was following his father's instructions: “There was a discussion of contacting other family members, and Pops said not to contact anyone, and I honored his request.” K.C. has hired his own defense attorney to refute Shannon's allegations of both criminal and civil wrongdoing, including her contention that her brother misappropriated the star's money and personal property during the final years of his life.

Sadly, the Amos family's situation is all too common among those whose parents and other elderly relatives are in declining health. With more and more families spread out around the country these days, caretaking responsibilities often fall to one person, who may not communicate openly or frequently enough with other relatives.

The LLF Family Law Team Can Help Those With Elder Abuse Claims

It's frustrating and upsetting when the person entrusted with a loved one's care refuses to communicate freely about their condition. Situations like this are more likely to exist in Pennsylvania than in many other states: According to Pennsylvania's Department of Aging, the Keystone State is home to 3.4 million older adults, the fifth-highest total in the country. State lawmakers are urging an investigation into the sharp increase of elder deaths in Pennsylvania who are subject to abuse or neglect reporting. The LLF Law Firm's Pennsylvania family law attorneys have a strong record of advocating on behalf of family members who suspect elder abuse as well as for the elders themselves: negotiating on their behalf, providing Protection From Abuse orders for elders as necessary, and representing them in family court if the problems cannot be settled without a judge's intervention.

Signs of Possible Elder Abuse or Neglect

In addition to lack of communication, other signs of possible elder abuse or neglect may include bedsores, poor hygiene, and changes in behavior that might indicate excessive use of medications to calm the person. These are only a few possible indications. It is very important for adult children to maintain frequent visits with their elderly parents as a strategy against abuse and neglect brought about by disconnection and isolation.

The LLF Family Law Team Works Closely with Clients

Family law disputes are sensitive and complicated, especially when they concern the possible mistreatment of a beloved family elder. The LLF Law Firm never takes a one-size-fits-all approach to its clients. The LLF Family Law Team has skilled, compassionate attorneys who take the time to listen to each client's story and work with them to craft a thoughtful, strategic plan of action.

Call the LLF Family Law Team today at 888-535-3686 to schedule an appointment, or use our contact form.