How to Identify Elder Abuse

Unfortunately, elder abuse isn't a happy topic to discuss, but it's essential to understand the signs of signs and to know what to look for. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 6 elders is abused.

Abuse can happen from a stranger, a friend, financial advisor, but more often than not, it's from a trusted caregiver. Isolation is a huge factor in who is at risk, and during the pandemic, the statics raised due to stay-at-home orders.

What to Look For:

• Physical Signs: injuries that resulted from physical force of restraint; unexplainable bruises or scrapes

• Emotional Signs: noticeable withdrawal from others due to verbal insults and threats

• Neglect: lack of hygiene, nutrition, medical attention, and other basic life essentials

• Sexual Abuse: forced sexual contact

• Financial Exploitation: coercion of financial assets, robbery, fraud, and improper guardianship of power of attorney

Keeping Our Loved Ones Safe:

Now more than ever, we need to keep our loved ones safe. Have more frequent contact with them via video, in person, or even a combination of the two.

If possible, the more family members who can care for the elder if necessary - the better. But this is not always possible or the best option; due your diligence researching in-home agencies and elder care facilities.

Every older adult deserves to be respected and cared for in the best way for their needs.

If you suspect someone is a victim of elder abuse, contact your local adult protective services or call 911 or your respective emergency number for immediate emergencies.