Things to consider while investigating Caretaker Neglect: Does the vulnerable adult have adequate shelter; medical care; supervision; food and clothing,
Definition of Caretaker: a person who is responsible for the care of or financial management for a vulnerable adult as a result of family relationship or has assumed responsibility for care of a vulnerable adult voluntarily, by contract, or by friendship; or who serves as a legally appointed guardian, limited guardian, or conservator.
Definition of Neglect:
- Failure to provide protection for a vulnerable adult who is unable to protect his or her own interest
- Failure to provide adequate shelter, nutrition, health care, or clothing for a vulnerable adult; or
- Negligent acts or omissions that result in harm or unreasonable risk of harm to a vulnerable adult, or lack of supervision by a caretaker providing direct services.
Example of Appropriate Findings Narrative
Example of Substantiated Allegation:
The allegation of caretaker neglect against the alleged perpetrator Frazier Crane has been substantiated based on the evidence obtained by collateral interviews and supporting documents. The client was a 73-year-old man that lived in a single wide trailer who was diagnosed with chronic COPD, heart disease and was a fall risk.
Mr. Crane lived in a small motor home parked in the client’s driveway. The client paid Mr. Crane a monthly salary of $1200.00 to assist with personal care needs; transportation to medical appointments; to prepare simple meals and set up weekly pill planner. The client and Mr. Crane agreed the services would be 3x per week M-W-F. A welfare check was conducted by the County Sheriff’s deputy at the request of a family member who lived out of state.
The deputy found the client at his home stuck between his bed and dresser unresponsive. The client was transported to the hospital where he passed away later that evening. Mr. Crane left the client without other caretaker arrangements made to spend time with his girlfriend.
Example of Unsubstantiated Allegation:
The allegation of caretaker neglect against the alleged perpetrator Eddie Murphy(client’s son) has been unsubstantiated based on the evidence obtained by collateral interviews and supporting documents.
The client is an 82-year-old male that lives in an apartment outside Mr. Murphy’s residence. The client has dementia, and is bed bound. The client is currently receiving hospice in the home. Mr. Murphy has installed video cameras in the client’s apartment that are activated by any sound or movement in the apartment.
The client is receiving services from Bella hospice which provides a nurse in the home twice a week in addition to an aide twice weekly. Mr. Murphy has hired a private caregiver 5 days weekly for 12 hours per day. Mr. Murphy teleworks from home and checks on the client throughout the day. Mr. Murphy prepares the client’s meals which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks; takes him to all medical appointments; provides all transportation and gives client his medications.
Mr. Murphy utilized respite services and placed the client in the Family Care Center in Canada while he was on vacation and did not return to the house for 8 days.
