Mississippi Elder Neglect Attorney

What is Considered Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse includes any intentional or negligent act that causes harm or serious risk of harm to an elderly person. In Mississippi, elder abuse may take many forms, including:

Physical Abuse

• Hitting, slapping, pushing, or restraining an elderly person
• Improper use of medication or physical restraints
• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, broken bones, or burns

Emotional Abuse

• Verbal attacks, threats, or humiliation
• Isolation from friends or family
• Intimidation or coercion

Sexual Abuse

• Non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation
• Inappropriate touching or sexual acts

Financial Exploitation

• Stealing money or property
• Forging signatures or coercing an elder into signing documents
• Misusing power of attorney or guardianship

Neglect

Neglect is one of the most common forms of elder abuse and often occurs in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Neglect includes:

• Failure to provide adequate food, water, hygiene, or medical care
• Leaving an elderly person unattended or unsupervised
• Failing to address bedsores, infections, or other medical issues

If you suspect any of these signs, it is important to act quickly. Elder abuse often escalates, and the longer it continues, the more severe the harm can become.

Mississippi Elder Abuse Law

Mississippi law provides protections for elderly individuals who are vulnerable due to age, disability, or mental impairment. Elder abuse claims can be pursued under a variety of legal theories, including:

Negligence

If a caregiver or facility fails to meet the standard of care required, they may be held liable for injuries caused by their negligence.

Intentional Tort

In cases of intentional abuse, such as assault or battery, the perpetrator may be held liable for damages.

Breach of Fiduciary Duty

Caregivers and facilities have a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the elderly person. Financial exploitation or misuse of power of attorney may constitute a breach of fiduciary duty.

Wrongful Death

If elder abuse or neglect results in the death of an elderly person, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Mississippi also has reporting laws that require certain professionals to report suspected abuse or neglect. This includes healthcare providers, social workers, and facility staff. However, reporting alone may not be enough to stop the abuse or secure justice. An experienced Mississippi elder abuse lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your loved one.

Who is Liable for Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse can be committed by a wide range of individuals or entities, including:

• Nursing home staff or administrators
• Assisted living facility caregivers
• Home health aides
• Family members or friends
• Financial advisors or guardians
• Doctors or medical professionals
• Property managers or caretakers

In many cases, liability extends beyond the individual caregiver to the facility or company that employed them. This is known as vicarious liability, meaning the facility may be responsible for the actions of its employees if it failed to properly train, supervise, or screen staff.

What to Do If Your Elderly Loved One is Being Abused

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, it is important to take immediate steps to protect your loved one and preserve evidence:

Ensure Safety

• Remove your loved one from the abusive situation if possible.
• Seek medical attention for injuries or signs of neglect.

Document Everything

• Take photos of injuries or unsafe living conditions.
• Keep records of medical reports, medication errors, and communication with staff.

Report the Abuse

• Contact local law enforcement if there is immediate danger.
• Report suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services (APS) or the Mississippi Department of Health.

Contact an Elder Abuse Lawyer

• A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal options, gather evidence, and file a claim.

At McHugh Fuller Law Group, we will conduct a thorough investigation and work to hold the responsible parties accountable. We know how emotionally and financially devastating elder abuse can be, and we are committed to helping families through every step of the legal process.