Elder abuse is a deeply concerning issue that affects millions of older adults every year. It can take many forms, often going unnoticed by even the closest of family members or caregivers. Understanding the signs and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in protecting your elderly loved one’s health, dignity, and wellbeing.
What Is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse is defined as any intentional harm or neglect inflicted upon an older adult. It can happen in various settings, such as in care facilities, at home, or in the community. Abuse ranges from physical harm and emotional manipulation to financial exploitation and neglect.
According to the CDC, elder abuse is significantly underreported, with only 1 in 24 cases actually brought to light. Raising awareness about what constitutes abuse is the first step toward intervention and prevention.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide in-home care. Turn to Align Home Care Services for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
What Are Common Signs of Elder Abuse?
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse can be challenging, especially when the perpetrator often controls interactions or explanations. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
- Physical abuse
- Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or injuries
- Frequent trips to the ER or doctor with conflicting accounts of how injuries occurred
- Changes in physical appearance such as weight loss or untreated medical conditions
- Emotional abuse
- Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies
- Feelings of fear, anxiety, or depression without an apparent cause
- Sudden changes in behavior, such as becoming unusually aggressive or passive
- Financial exploitation
- Unexplained bank withdrawals or sudden changes in financial status
- Missing possessions or valuables
- Changes to wills, deeds, or power of attorney the older adult might not fully understand or approve of
- Neglect or self-neglect
- Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or dehydration
- Unsafe living conditions, such as lack of heating, water, or necessary medical aids
- Unmet medical needs, like missed medications or untreated infections
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to keep your loved one safe from elder abuse while ensuring he or she receives high-quality in-home care. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional elder care Portland seniors can trust and rely on.
Who Is Most at Risk for Elder Abuse?
While elder abuse can happen to anyone, some individuals are more vulnerable than others. Risk factors include physical or mental disabilities, social isolation, financial dependency on caregivers, or living in environments with high stress or limited resources. Older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia are particularly at risk, as they may have difficulty expressing or reporting abuse.
Additionally, caregivers themselves may face challenges like burnout, lack of training, or financial strain, which can sometimes lead to unintentional neglect or even willful abuse.
How Should You Respond when You Suspect Elder Abuse?
If you suspect elder abuse, it’s important to act quickly and deliberately. Your loved one’s safety and wellbeing must always be the top priority. Here’s what you can do:
- Document and observe
Take note of any signs or patterns of abuse, documenting injuries, behaviors, and suspicious financial transactions. Keep track of dates and other important details, as they can be critical when reporting the issue.
- Speak up
If it’s safe to do so, talk to your loved one in a private, supportive setting. Your loved one may feel ashamed, scared, or unsure when expressing his or her experiences. Use open-ended questions like “Has someone been treating you unkindly?” rather than accusatory or leading questions.
- Contact authorities
Report your concerns to Adult Protective Services (APS) in your area. APS handles cases of elder abuse and can investigate the situation. You may also contact local law enforcement if there’s immediate danger.
- Seek legal advice or intervention
For cases involving financial exploitation, consulting an elder law attorney can be helpful. The attorney can assist with protecting assets, undoing fraudulent transactions, or filing legal action against the abuser.
- Offer emotional support
Show your loved one he or she isn’t alone. Regular visits, phone calls, and simply being present can make a significant impact in rebuilding a sense of safety and trust.
Where Can You Find Resources for Help?
Addressing elder abuse isn’t something you have to do alone. There are numerous resources and organizations dedicated to combating the issue and supporting victims, such as:
- National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) – Provides resources on reporting and preventing elder abuse nationwide
- National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) – Offers information on laws, reporting processes, and educational materials
- Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) – A hotline that connects you to local services and support resources
For many seniors in Portland, ME, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Align Home Care Services, we extensively screen all of our caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. If your loved one needs assistance with the challenges of aging, reach out to one of our knowledgeable, compassionate Care Managers today.