Learn to recognize the signs of elder abuse and why reporting is essential. The most common warning signs of elder abuse are sudden and strange changes in the mental, physical, or financial well-being of an older loved one. While signs of elder abuse and neglect are similar, the latter is often due to inadequate care, not intentional harm. While anyone can experience elder abuse, people who suffer from dementia, depression, physical disability, or social isolation are the most vulnerable.
The complex dynamics in which abuse occurs makes it difficult to determine or identify all of the factors associated with an increased risk of abuse, however, knowing the risk factors can help you identify potential situations of elder abuse. Remember, an older person who doesn't experience any of these risk factors can continue to experience elder abuse. While any elderly person can experience elder abuse, some are at greater risk of abuse or neglect than others. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), most cases of elder abuse occur when older people live at home.
Family members should promptly address any potential sexual abuse cases to keep their parents, grandparents, or other elderly relatives safe. Common signs of elder abuse include physical injury, negative behavior changes, or unexplained transactions. But elder abuse can lead to premature death, damage physical and psychological health, destroy social and family ties, cause devastating financial losses, and more. The National Council on Aging estimates that 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 has been a victim of elder abuse.
The signs of elder abuse may vary with each case, and some older people may be victims of more than one type of abuse. The Administration for Community Living has a National Center on Elder Abuse, where you can learn how to report abuse, where to get help, and state laws that address abuse and neglect. To learn more about the signs of elder abuse and the next steps you can take, get a free case review today. Because any type of elder abuse can affect a parent, grandparent, or other family member, it's important to know the warning signs of each type.
The Nursing Home Abuse Center (NHAC) was founded to bring justice to people affected by abuse in nursing homes and nursing homes.
