Most people get increasingly vulnerable as they grow older, and this makes the elderly particularly susceptible to abuse and exploitation.  Arizona recognizes the potential danger in this situation, and thus protects the elderly under a vulnerable adult statute.

How does the vulnerable adult statute protect Arizona’s elderly?

Seniors under the care of a caregiver or a healthcare facility are protected by Arizona’s vulnerable adult statute.  The statute holds that caregivers or facility personnel who knowingly deprive a senior of assets or property can be found guilty of theft, and held liable for up to three times the amount of the actual monetary damages.  This severe punishment aims to deter caregivers from abusing their position of trust.

Are there any signs that may indicate a healthcare facility is not providing proper care to its patients?

Bedsores are perhaps the most telltale sign that a healthcare facility is not providing its patients with proper care.  Bedsores are painful lesions that can lead to infections and even death.  Though they are generally quite preventable, bedsores are common among seniors residing in healthcare facilities.  They sometimes indicate that a healthcare facility does not provide its patients with proper attention.  Families should be highly suspect if they notice their loved one has bedsores, and make sure the facility immediately remedies the issue.  Sometimes legal action is the only recourse families have against negligent healthcare facilities.