Sometimes people have concerns that their loved one will be treated poorly by care team members or other individuals if they report the financial abuse. Fortunately, there are some legal protections. Federal law gives people living in nursing homes and assisted living communities the right to file complaints without discrimination or retaliation. Many states also have their own laws to protect people who report elder abuse. Learn more about laws protecting residents’ rights at ltcombudsman.org/issues/residents-rights.
It is important to understand any protections you and your loved one have under the law. You can contact the long-term care ombudsman program for help understanding federal regulations and residents’ rights, and the ombudsman may also be able to refer you to legal services in your area. You can also speak with a private lawyer. See the “Legal help” section of the Resources list at consumerfinance.gov/elderabuseresources for help finding a lawyer.