The demand for adult-care homes is on the rise as several Americans entering their golden years require living assistance. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) pushed for private adult-care homes, but, unfortunately, too many seniors have faced neglect and abuse from their caregivers at these facilities. Hagens Berman’s Tony Shapiro spoke with the Seattle Times about the real cost of senior care in an investigative series called "Seniors for Sale."

The story examines how “private residences — called adult family homes — were marketed as opportunities for seniors to live in cozy settings and familiar neighborhoods, close to family and friends, with more freedom and superior care.” However, abuse against seniors at these homes is a growing problem throughout Washington State as well as the nation, Shapiro told the Seattle Times.

All too often, newspaper stories tell of someone’s mother, father or grandparent suffering gross neglect at nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. It’s important to regularly monitor the care of your loved-one and write down your observations during each visit. Here are several warning signs to watch for that could potentially save your elderly family member from pain, suffering and even death.

1. Unexplained marks, bruises or injuries
2. Untreated sores, injuries or illnesses
3. Develops poor hygiene
4. Experiences dramatic weight-loss
5. Shows a dramatic decline in overall well being
6. Demonstrates erratic behavior with strong signs of depression, anger or rage
7. Appears to be heavily medicated or lethargic for no legitimate reason
8. Seems afraid of caregivers and staff
9. Facilities seem unclean and poorly managed
10. Caregivers seem uncooperative with patients as well as families

Hagens Berman seeks to protect the legal rights of seniors and disabled adults. The firm is interested in speaking with anyone that has experienced or witnessed substandard care, neglect or abuse at adult-care homes. If you know someone that has been neglected or abused while staying at an adult-care home, please share your story with us or contact Tony Shapiro at [email protected]. We’d like to help.