Signs of Abuse
Neglect by the senior or others may be indicated by:
- significant weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration
- lack of cleanliness, grooming, personal or medical care
- lack of environmental needs or unsafe structures
- advancing memory difficulties
- withdrawal, depression or isolation
Financial risks may be indicated by:
- caregiver, family or others relying on elder's finances
- unpaid bills when finances are sufficient
- living above or below means
- unusual spending by elder, caregiver or family members
- elder has no knowledge of finances
Physical Abuse may be indicated by:
- unexplained injuries or injuries inconsistent with reasons given
- confused elder confined to a room or left unsupervised
- under or over medicated
- medications used by caregiver as a way to control behavior
- elder is restrained to a chair
- bruises of varying age
- unset, untreated fractures
- confused elder showing up unescorted at an emergency room.
Sexual Abuse may be indicated by:
- genital or anal bruises
- vaginal or anal bleeding
- welling or redness of genital area
- venereal disease
- elder displays uncharacteristic sexual behavior