Elder abuse and neglect are serious issues affecting thousands of vulnerable seniors in Michigan each year. Under Michigan law, vulnerable adults—including those with advanced age—are protected from physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. If you suspect elder abuse, act quickly to protect your loved one. At Patrick & Associates, PLLC, we help families in Troy, Southfield, Oakland County, Wayne County, and throughout Michigan hold abusers accountable.
Michigan law defines elder abuse under the broader category of “vulnerable adult abuse.” According to MCL 400.11, abuse means “harm or threatened harm to an adult’s health or welfare caused by another person,” including nonaccidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse, or maltreatment. A “vulnerable adult” is any person 18 or older who is unable to protect themselves due to mental or physical impairment or advanced age.
Neglect includes failure to provide food, shelter, medical care, or supervision, leading to serious harm. Exploitation covers financial abuse, such as misusing funds or property through fraud or coercion.
Abuse often occurs in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or even family homes, making it critical to know the warning signs.
Common indicators include unexplained bruises, weight loss, poor hygiene, sudden withdrawal, fear of caregivers, missing valuables, or unusual financial transactions. Watch for bedsores, dehydration, or medication errors in care facilities.
Early detection can prevent serious harm and allow families to seek legal protection.
Michigan’s primary protections come from the Social Welfare Act and Michigan Penal Code:
Violations can result in civil lawsuits for damages, guardianship changes, or criminal prosecution.
Anyone who suspects elder abuse must report it. Mandatory reporters (healthcare workers, caregivers, etc.) face penalties for failing to report. Call Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Adult Protective Services at 855-444-3911 (24/7) or file online at michigan.gov/mdhhs.
For nursing homes or licensed facilities, also contact the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). If immediate danger exists, call 911. Reports are confidential, and good-faith reporters are protected from liability.
Families can file civil lawsuits for damages, seek restraining orders, or petition for guardianship/conservatorship. Our firm investigates abuse, gathers evidence, and holds caregivers, nursing homes, and hospitals accountable. We also assist with probate and estate planning to prevent future exploitation.
Any harm or threatened harm to a vulnerable adult’s health or welfare, including physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse, as defined in MCL 400.11.
Any person 18+ who cannot protect themselves due to age, mental/physical impairment, or other factors.
All individuals are encouraged to report; mandatory reporters (doctors, nurses, social workers, etc.) are required under MCL 400.11a.
APS investigates, may provide protective services, and can involve law enforcement or the court for emergency orders.
Yes—civil lawsuits can seek compensation for damages, medical costs, and pain and suffering.
Penalties under MCL 750.145n range from misdemeanors to felonies with up to 15 years in prison.
Yes, under MCL 750.174a, with penalties up to 20 years for severe cases.
Regularly visit loved ones, review finances, use trusted caregivers, and include protective clauses in estate plans.
Contact attorney Dean E. Patrick for a free consultation. We serve Troy, Southfield, Oakland County, Wayne County, and all of Michigan.
Call (248) 663-2566 or fill out our online form.
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