Elder abuse is a horrifying violation of the trust we place in those who care for our aging loved ones. Instead of caring for an older person who can no longer live alone, an elder abuser takes advantage of the elder's helplessness to exploit, abuse or neglect him or her. The results can be physical injury or emotional trauma to the victim, loss of his or her life savings or even a premature death.

Unfortunately, statistics show that an elder abuser is most likely to be a relative of the abused person, but it can also be a home caregiver, staff at an assisted-living facility, a stranger who won the elder's trust or even a court-appointed guardian. Elder abuse can also take many forms:

• Physical or sexual abuse
• Financial exploitation
• Verbal abuse and harassment
• Threats and intimidation
• Neglect of a bedridden or dependent elder
• Withholding medication or food
• Over-medication

In many cases, the same ailments that required a caregiver can keep an elder from reporting abuse. By the time family members notice problems like bedsores, fear of being left alone or a drained savings account, substantial damage may already have been done. You may be able to criminally prosecute the perpetrator or report him or her to regulatory agencies, but that won't help you win back stolen money or the cost of treatments associated with the abuse. A Florida elder abuse lawsuit can help you win these costs, as well as compensation for your loved one's injuries, pain and loss of dignity.

The Law Offices of Cohn, Smith & Cohn, P.A. is a Florida law firm that represents victims of elder abuse throughout the State of Florida. We have more than 35 years of experience in Florida personal injury cases, including cases of nursing home abuse and elder abuse. Our attorneys are dedicated to winning the best possible compensation for all of our clients. And we offer free case evaluations to all potential clients, which allow us to get to know you and your case while advising you on your rights and your options.

If you know or believe someone you love is a victim of elder abuse, contact Cohn, Smith & Cohn online or call us at 954-431-8100 or 305-624-9186 to set up a free consultation.