As used in ORS 124.050 to 124.095: (1) “Abuse” means one or more of the following: (a) Any physical injury to an elderly person caused by other than accidental means, or which appears to be at variance with the explanation given of the injury. (b) Neglect.
Report suspected maltreatment of a vulnerable adult to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center at 1-844-880-1574 which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Minnesota encourages good faith reporting of suspected maltreatment of vulnerable adults by any person.
When you suspect an adult patient is being abused, Dr. Berman says, you should advise him or her on local resources that can help, and make a note in his or her medical record. While you can take matters into your own hands and call the agency yourself, he says, the patient or abuser could become angry or afraid.
If appropriate, an arrest is made and criminal charges are brought. A trial begins if the prosecutor files charges. A prison sentence of up to 15 years follows upon conviction. Knowingly filing a false claim of elder abuse comes with legal consequences.
The Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act, codified as Minnesota Statues, sections 626.557 to 626.5572, establishes requirements for reporting alleged maltreatment of vulnerable adults to government agencies, investigating maltreatment reports, and providing protective services to vulnerable adults.
Elder abuse is the mistreatment, neglect or exploitation of an older adult or vulnerable person. The abuse typically occurs at home or at a residential facility, at the hands of a caregiver or family member.
These people are called Mandated Reporters. These are generally individuals who are involved with elders and dependent adults. This includes care custodians, health practitioners, law enforcement, paramedics, banks and fire fighters. Reporters must file an abuse report when they observe or suspect abuse.
Neglect: o Care Giver Neglect: Care giver fails to supply care/services reasonable and necessary to maintain person i.e. food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, and supervision. o Self-Neglect: Absence of food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, and supervision, services essential to the welfare or safety of the person.
In California, elder abuse charges can lead to the following: A fine of $2,500 or to six-digit values. Imprisonment in county jail (for misdemeanors) Incarceration in state prison (for felonies)