The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services provides an avenue for those who have been victims of elder abuse to file a claim. Elder abuse is widespread and can take many forms such as physical, emotional, and financial abuse. This service provides a safe, confidential process for filing a claim of elder abuse, and will ensure that the victim’s rights are protected.

Through this process, victims can obtain the resources they need and seek justice. This department offers a variety of resources to help victims through the process. If you or a loved one is a victim of elder abuse, please contact a Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer for additional information.

Signs And Symptoms Of Elder Abuse

Elderly individuals in nursing homes are particularly vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Any form of mistreatment of a senior citizen, whether intentional or unintentional, can be considered abuse. Signs of nursing home abuse may include physical, emotional, or financial abuse.

Physical abuse may include physical injury or the deprivation of basic needs such as food and water. Physical signs of abuse can include bruises, burns, marks, or signs of trauma. Emotional abuse may include verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, or humiliation. Financial abuse may include the misappropriation of funds, stealing, identity theft, or other financial issues.

Chicago is known for its cold, harsh winters, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable during this time. Nursing homes must take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents. Failure to provide the proper heating, clothing and other winter accommodations can be considered abuse.

Nursing home staff must also provide adequate medical care and ensure that all medical needs are met. Delaying or denying medical care, neglecting to provide medication, or failing to respond to medical emergencies could be considered nursing home abuse.

Elderly individuals who are cognitively impaired, developmentally disabled, or living with disabilities may be particularly vulnerable to abuse and require extra attention and resources. Nursing home staff must ensure that they are adequately protected from abuse and that their rights are respected.

Filing A Claim

Filing a claim for elder abuse is an important step in ensuring that justice is served and that victims are provided with the resources they need. 

Filing A Police Report

Filing a police report is the most effective way to protect the victim and hold the abuser accountable for their actions. Here are the steps for filing a police report for elder abuse: 

The first step in filing a police report is to contact the local police department and make a call. Describe the abuse and provide as much detail as possible. If you have any evidence of the abuse such as photos, videos, or written documents, provide them to the police. This evidence can help to strengthen the validity of your claim.

Victims of elder abuse should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Be sure to inform the doctor of the abuse and request a medical exam that can help to provide evidence of the abuse. The police will provide you with a form that you must fill out. Provide as much detail as possible, including the date and time of the abuse, the abuser’s name, and any evidence you have.

Filing With The Chicago Department Of Family And Support Services

When an abuse allegation is reported, DFSS will open an investigation and contact the alleged abuser and/or the elderly victim. DFSS will ensure that the elderly victim is safe and has access to necessary medical and social services.

The investigation process includes interviewing the alleged abuser and/or the elderly victim, identifying witnesses, and collecting evidence. DFSS will also consult the appropriate state and federal agencies to determine if the abuse is a criminal offense. If the abuse is determined to be a criminal offense, DFSS will refer the case to the Chicago Police Department.

If the abuse is found to be non-criminal, DFSS will work with the elderly victim to create a safety plan. This safety plan may involve relocating the elderly victim to a safer environment, providing counseling or therapy services to the victim, and/or helping the elderly victim access financial and medical resources.

DFSS also works with community organizations and other agencies to provide support and resources to the elderly victim. This includes providing legal services, housing assistance, and other necessary resources. DFSS also coordinates with law enforcement and other government agencies to ensure that the elderly victim’s rights are protected.

Elder abuse is a serious problem that affects thousands of individuals every year. Filing a police report and contacting the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services are important steps to take. By recognizing and acting on the signs, we can help protect our elderly loved ones and ensure they are safe and well-cared for.