Anyone can be a victim of abuse, but older adults who are dependent on others are at greater risk. More than 10% of adults over the age of 65 will experience elder abuse each year (U.S. Department of Justice).
Abuse comes in many forms. The abuse could be physical, sexual, emotional, financial or even neglect. Knowing the signs of elder abuse could help you determine if a person is in an abusive situation.
We recommend being on the lookout for:
Signs That Someone Is A Victim Of Abuse
Unexplained injuries, such as: cuts, bruises or burns
Changes in behavior or emotional well-being
A caregiver who refuses to allow anyone to have a private conversation with the potential victim
Changes in the victim’s finances, such as: missing checks, unexplained withdrawals or credit card charges
Extreme weight loss in a short amount of time
Complaints about being mistreated or neglected
If you notice someone is showing any signs of abuse, it’s important that you do not attempt to confront the suspected abuser. In many cases, this can put the victim at an increased risk. Instead, we suggest you do one of the following:
What To Do If You Suspect Abuse
Contact Adult Protective Services
Speak with a doctor, whether it is your own or the victim’s
Contact the non-emergency number at your local police station
Just Call Us at Aging & In-Home Services
Elder abuse is a particularly difficult challenge because it is often committed by friends or family of the victim. It is not uncommon for victims of abuse to refrain from reporting their situation because they do not want their friends or loved ones to get in trouble.
Learning the warning signs is an important first step to stopping elder abuse. If you have questions or believe someone may be a victim of abuse, Just Call Us! 260-745-1200
