Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse comes in many shapes and forms. It can be physical, mental, emotional, financial, or a mix of all the above. It can involve neglect, financial exploitation, emotional abuse or physical attacks. Whether you’re concerned about a loved one, a neighbor or even a stranger you see on a regular basis, it’s everyone’s job to watch for warning signs of elder abuse.

Many elders don’t have the ability to find help for themselves, and are at the mercy of their tormentors. Sadly, most abusers are family members—but there are also cases of abuse occurring at nursing homes and other long-term senior care facilities. Knowing the signs of elder abuse can help you save a life.

What is Elder Abuse?

“What is elder abuse?” is a question that doesn’t have just one answer. Many people think of physical abuse as the be-all, end-all type of abuse (and that certainly exists), but it’s just one of many. If you notice a lack of amenities that are largely considered affordable (such as working heat) in an elder person’s home, it might be a sign of abuse. In some cases of elder abuse, family members may be withholding financial means (even the elder’s own finances) and forcing their charge to live in discomfort. On the flip side, if you notice caretakers giving unusually excessive gifts or cash, it may be a sign that the elder is being financially exploited. If anything at all just seems off, trust your gut and start digging deeper.

Elder abuse, whether it occurs at a nursing home or other long-term senior care facility, can also be evident if you find out that an elder has signed over property or power of attorney to someone else. While this isn’t necessarily always a red flag, you may want to check with an elder care attorney to see if everything is on the up and up. If the elder isn’t aware of what the transaction really means, it could fall into the camp of financial abuse. On the other side of the spectrum, if you notice bruises, welts, fractures or other signs of physical abuse that can’t be explained, it’s crucial that you look further into the situation.

Also watch for signs of elder abuse and neglect, which can include a lack of general hygiene and decent clothing, a lack of food, lack of medications, a dirty home or one in disrepair, and those who are bedridden or who have dementia and are left unsupervised. Inexplicable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are another big red flag when it comes to senior abuse. If you find out that an elder has recently been diagnosed with an STI, it might be due to elder sex abuse. In the world of elder abuse statistics, some of them can be shocking—and it’s very possible for elders, just like anyone else, to become a sex abuse victim. Sadly, the most under-reported victims of abuse in general are elders, and they also make up the population that receives the least amount of government funding and support.

Take Action Today

A reputable elder law attorney can help you get help for elders. If you’re concerned about nursing home abuse or elder abuse occurring at another type of long-term care facility, you just might save someone’s life. Check to see if the home has adequate facilities (such as a refrigerator or electricity), if you notice untreated bed sores, or other signs of problems. If you know an elder who’s showing uncharacteristic shift in behavior, including withdrawal, it could be a sign of emotional abuse.

It might take nothing more than calling an elderly abuse hotline, and there’s one that caters to each state. By calling 800-677-1116, you can get information for support in your region. Of course, if you need immediate help, calling 911 might be a better option. Don’t be afraid to get involved, no matter how well (or little) you know the elder.

Are You Worried About Elder Abuse?

Do you suspect elder abuse, or do you want more information about your legal options? Find out more by visiting the Elder Abuse, Nursing Home Neglect Class Action Lawsuit Investigation right now. You can get the information and support you need to possibly save someone’s life, so take action today.