What are Some 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;
  • swelling or redness of genital area;
  • venereal disease;
  • elder displays uncharacteristic sexual behavior.

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