The attorneys at Guenard and Bozarth are well aware of the systemic problem of elder abuse which plague relatives and other loved ones. People place their trust in nursing homes and other facilities for the elderly to care for and protect their family members. Once they discover, however, that the home engages in illegal behavior, they are unsure what to do. Fortunately, the law protects people from elder abuse and provides for damages and penalties against those who abuse your trust. California state law and the Federal Nursing Home Reform Act clearly state that the resident has the right to be free from abuse.

Several reasons why abuse occurs are set forth in the following:

• Caregiver Stress - Work in a nursing home can be extremely stressful, particularly when there is inadequate staff, which may lead to a violent response by employees.
• Inadequate Training - Although staff members are suppose to receive training, many are receiving faulty or inadequate training on how to deal with the elderly.
• Inadequate Supervision of Staff - A lack of leadership may allow employees to treat residents as they please, causing the potential for elderly abuse.
• High Turnover Rates of Staff - For a variety of reasons, it is difficult to attract and retain qualified employees.