Today’s senior citizens are living more active, independent lives than ever before. Life expectancy has gone up exponentially, and our seniors are enjoying better health late into their golden years. While this is wonderful news, there are always people who seek easy targets for criminal activity. As the senior population has grown, so too has the incidence of elder abuse.
It’s estimated that each year, more than two million senior citizens become victims of some form of elder abuse – whether physical, emotional, or financial. Most people think that “elder abuse” is only something that occurs in nursing homes, but it’s much more pervasive. In fact, most incidents of elder abuse do not occur in nursing homes, because only around five percent of seniors live in long-term care facilities. Unfortunately, most elder abuse takes place in private homes, at the hands of family members or private caregivers.
Elder abuse is often subtle, and it’s difficult to discern what’s going on because seniors are usually ashamed that they’ve become victims of abuse. Because of this, it’s estimated that only one out of five cases of elder abuse is actually reported to the authorities. It’s vitally important that if you suspect a case of elder abuse for someone you know, get involved. With appropriate intervention, ongoing and future abuse can be prevented. Here are the main types of elder abuse and some of their warning signs. While it’s difficult to think of your loved ones experiencing any of these mistreatments, it’s important to educate yourself so you know what to do if you see any of the warning signs.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse can take many forms, including hitting, slapping, kicking, pinching, biting, or burning. It can also include the use of restraints, depriving the person of food, exposing them to uncomfortable weather conditions, or providing medication improperly – either over medicating or withholding prescribed medications. Warning signs include (but are not limited to):
- Injuries the elder cannot or refuses to explain, especially recurring injuries in areas typically covered by clothing
- Depression or withdrawal
- Showing discomfort or fear in the presence of caregivers
- Denial of obvious injuries, or confusing explanations about injuries that conflict with that of the caregivers
- Injuries can include bruises, welts, restraint marks, lacerations, bone fractures, cuts, punctures, or cigarette burns
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse creates fear, emotional pain, or mental anguish. It runs the gamut from “the silent treatment” to insults and making threats. Emotional abuse can also be inflicted through isolation by barring access to other family members, friends, and social activities. Warning signs include:
- Feeling agitated or emotionally upset
- A typically outgoing, social senior who becomes withdrawn or non-communicative
- Portraying extreme behavior such as rocking or sucking
Neglect
Neglect covers not only failure to meet the physical needs of an elder, but also failing to meet their social or emotional needs. It ranges from personal hygiene problems to withholding food and water, and refusing to assist with basic daily living activities, such as paying bills on time, keeping the home tidy, or going grocery shopping. Look for warning signs that include:
- Dehydration or malnutrition, including weight loss unrelated to health conditions
- A hazardous living environment, such as a home without heat or running water
- Unsanitary living conditions, such as a buildup of trash, soiled bedding, or inadequate clothing
- Untreated health problems
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse involves the illegal or inappropriate use of an elder’s funds, personal property, or assets. It can be anything from a family member’s misuse of personal funds to embezzlement by a complete stranger. Financial abuse includes fraud, forgery, using funds without consent, or denying the elder access to their money or personal possessions. Warning signs typically include:
- Sudden changes in a senior’s banking practices, including unusual withdrawals
- Adding another person to their bank account
- An abrupt change to the elder’s will or other financial documents
- Unpaid bills when adequate financial resources are available
- The sudden appearance of new relatives showing an interest in an elder’s financial affairs or possessions
If you suspect a senior you love is experiencing any form of elder abuse, it’s so important that you report it so they can get the help they need immediately. Don’t let your fear of being wrong hinder you from preventing continued abuse. If you believe they are in imminent danger, call 911. Otherwise, call the police, a local parishioner, or your state’s local elder abuse hotline. If you don’t know where to start, call the Eldercare Hotline at 1-800-677-1116 and they will put you in touch with the appropriate agency. It’s advisable to avoid confronting the suspected abuser yourself unless you have the elder’s permission, or have the ability to move them to a safe place. You should also consider a consultation with a lawyer if someone you love has become the victim of elder abuse, so that you understand your rights and the rights of your loved one.
Lamar Yves serves as a resource for Dallas injury lawyers. He helps those in need find the resources to provide for themselves and their families.
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