What Can I Do If I Suspect Elder Abuse of a Loved One?

Suspecting elder abuse is emotionally overwhelming, especially when it involves someone you love and trust. Unfortunately, elder abuse is more common than many people realize. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 has experienced some form of elder abuse. In cities like Los Angeles, where many seniors live in assisted living or nursing homes, the risk is even higher due to population density and limited oversight.

If you believe your elderly loved one is being mistreated, neglected, or financially exploited, it can be incredibly difficult to prove. That’s where Empire Pacific Investigative Services (EPIS) comes in. As a trusted private investigation firm based in Los Angeles, CA, we specialize in discreetly uncovering the truth behind elder abuse claims and helping families protect the vulnerable.

Why Elder Abuse Is Hard to Detect

Elder abuse doesn’t always leave visible marks. Many victims are too afraid, confused, or dependent to speak out. Some may suffer from cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, making it harder for them to report what’s happening. Types of elder abuse include:

• Physical abuse (unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries)
• Emotional abuse (isolation, fearfulness, depression)
• Financial exploitation (missing money, unauthorized account activity)
• Neglect (poor hygiene, bedsores, malnutrition)
• Sexual abuse

Subtle signs may go unnoticed by family members, especially if you live out of town or visit infrequently. In a city like Los Angeles, where elder care facilities vary greatly in quality, vigilance is essential.

How a Private Investigator Can Help

Hiring an experienced private investigator in Los Angeles can make a significant difference in uncovering elder abuse. At EPIS, we use surveillance, interviews, background checks, and document reviews to build a case backed by evidence. Our services can include:

• Covert surveillance of in-home caregivers or nursing staff
• Witness interviews with neighbors, staff, or other residents
• Review of financial documents to detect fraud or theft
• Background checks on caregivers or facility employees
• Documentation of physical evidence, such as injuries or unsafe conditions

This type of investigation can help families confront abusers, report findings to law enforcement, and pursue legal action. Our work has supported successful criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and the removal of negligent caregivers.

What You Should Do If You Suspect Abuse

If you’re worried about the safety of a parent, grandparent, or other elderly loved one in Los Angeles or Southern California, don’t wait. Early action is key.

Here’s what you can do:

• Document your concerns — Take photos, record dates, and write down unusual behavior.
• Speak privately with your loved one — If they’re able to communicate, ask open-ended questions in a safe, supportive way.
• Report it — Contact local Adult Protective Services or law enforcement if you believe someone is in immediate danger.
• Hire a private investigator — For cases where evidence is unclear or agencies are slow to act, EPIS can uncover critical details to help you take action.

Protect Your Loved Ones with EPIS in Los Angeles

At Empire Pacific Investigative Services, we’re committed to protecting the most vulnerable. With decades of experience in Los Angeles elder abuse investigations, our team acts quickly, discreetly, and professionally to help families get answers and justice.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your loved one’s safety and dignity.