Elder abuse is a complex and often a silent problem that affects some of our most vulnerable citizens. As our population ages, the issue becomes increasingly urgent, affecting the moral fabric of our society. This type of abuse can take many forms, from physical and emotional to financial exploitation, and it can occur anywhere — in the victim’s home, in nursing facilities, and even in hospital settings.
Different Forms of Elder Abuse
Physical abuse in the elderly is the non-accidental use of force against an aging individual that results in physical pain, injury, or impairment. Such abuse includes acts that inflict harm and the inappropriate administration of drugs or confinement.
Signs of Physical Abuse:
Inexplicable bruises, scars, or welts, especially if they appear symmetrically on two sides of the body
Broken bones, sprains, or dislocations reported as accidents
A sudden change in the elder’s medication regimen without a clear and sound medical reason
Failure to take medication regularly (a prescription doesn’t last as long as it should)
Emotional or Psychological Abuse involves causing emotional pain through verbal or non-verbal acts. Demeaning comments, threats, or habitual blaming can seriously affect an elder’s mental health.
Signs of Emotional Abuse:
Uncharacteristic behavior that mimics dementia, such as mumbling to oneself, thumb sucking, or rocking back and forth
A sudden withdrawal from normal activities or a severe loss of self-esteem
Avoidance of eye contact or an apparent fear of communicating openly
Sexual abuse refers to non-consensual sexual contact of any kind with an elderly person and includes touching, fondling, intercourse, or any other sexual activity when the elder is unable to understand, unwilling to consent, or physically forced.
Signs of Sexual Abuse:
Bruises around or on the breasts or genital area
Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections
Underclothing that is torn, stained, or bloody
Neglect is the failure of a caretaker to fulfill the elder’s basic needs. This neglect can be intentional or unintentional, based on factors such as ignorance or denial that an elder needs as much care as they do.
Signs of Neglect:
Personal hygiene issues, such as dirty hair, nails, or skin
Untreated health problems, including bed sores or frequent infections
An unsafe or unclean living environment with hazards like poor wiring, no heat, or running water
There are noticeable shortages of basic necessities such as food, water or medicine.
Financial exploitation occurs when a person illegally or improperly uses an elder’s money or belongings for personal use.
Signs of Financial Exploitation:
Significant withdrawals from the elder’s bank accounts or transfers between accounts that the elder cannot explain
Sudden changes in the elder’s financial condition or missing items of value
Forged signatures on financial transactions or titles of possessions
Payment for unnecessary services, goods, or subscriptions
Taking Appropriate Action
Communicating your concerns to the elder in question is a step that should be handled with tact and empathy. Choose a safe, private environment to express your concerns, ensuring the elder feels secure and unthreatened. Be respectful and patient, giving them ample opportunity to speak. It’s important to listen attentively and reassure them that they are not to blame, should they choose to share their experiences. Respect their right to make their own decisions while gently offering help and resources.
If abuse is suspected, start compiling a detailed account of observations without delay. Keep a record of anything out of the ordinary, including:
Descriptions of any physical signs of abuse, like bruises or cuts
Notes about the elder’s emotional state or changes in behavior
Details regarding the elder’s living conditions that raise concerns
Any alterations in the elder’s financial situation or irregularities with their money and possessions
Accurate and precise documentation is of the utmost importance, as it may be used by investigative agencies to understand the situation and take appropriate action.
Contact your local adult protective services agency, or the police, or utilize the Eldercare Locator to connect with resources in your area.
Being present and offering consistent support to the elderly can significantly improve the person’s journey through a difficult time. Assist in the following ways:
Accompany them to appointments and offer assistance with engaging the necessary community support services.
Help them understand their rights and the legal processes they may encounter.
Provide them with emotional support by checking in on them regularly, offering companionship, and showing that they are valued and not alone.
By taking a holistic approach to care and support, we can provide the elderly with the resources and strength they require to navigate through the aftermath of abuse and begin the healing process.
Reporting Procedures
If you believe an elder is in immediate danger, time is of the essence. In such cases:
Dial 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Provide the operator with all the pertinent information, including the nature of the emergency and any immediate medical concerns.
Stay with the elder until help arrives, if possible, to provide comfort and support.
In situations that are not immediately life-threatening:
Each state and many localities have their own Adult Protective Services (APS) office. These agencies are typically tasked with the investigation and intervention in cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults and adults with disabilities.
You can make a report by phone, in writing, or online, depending on the mechanisms your local APS agency has in place. Provide clear and detailed information, including the elder’s name, address, contact details, and specifics about why you are concerned for their safety.
Reporting can be done anonymously. You do not have to give your name if you prefer not to.
Certain professionals, such as healthcare providers, social workers, and law enforcement officers, may be mandated reporters. This means they are legally required to report any suspected abuse. Familiarize yourself with your state’s requirements if you are in such a profession.
For additional support:
The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide service that connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. You can reach the Eldercare Locator by calling 1-800-677-1116 or visiting their website.
If financial abuse is suspected:
Alert the elder’s bank or credit union to the potential fraud.
File a report with the relevant financial regulatory bodies in your state or country.
Consider contacting your local police department, especially if you believe a crime has been committed.
It’s wise to keep a record of your actions, including whom you contacted, the response received, and any follow-up actions taken. This can be vital in ensuring accountability and continuity in the process of protecting the elderly.
Elder abuse is a grievous and unacceptable breach of trust that has no place in our society. By understanding the signs, knowing how to act, and utilizing the available resources, we can each play a role in safeguarding our elders from abuse. Elder abuse prevention is a communal responsibility that calls for awareness, compassion, and action. No elder should ever have to suffer abuse in silence. With a united, informed front, we can help ensure that they receive the dignity, respect, and safety they deserve in their golden years.