Elder abuse is a deeply concerning issue that affects countless seniors worldwide. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse.
Recognizing the warning signs of this mistreatment is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults and taking care of our family members. This blog will outline ten key indicators to help you identify potential abuse and take the necessary steps to protect your loved ones.
The Importance of Prompt Action
The initial consequences of elder abuse, including emotional distress, physical injuries, financial losses, etc., are concerning on their own, but they can build into even more serious complications such as permanent, severe health conditions or mental health complications if abuse is not addressed properly.
For this reason, it is absolutely crucial to take any signs of abuse seriously, prioritizing prompt action and full support for individuals and families who suffer.
10 Warning Signs of Elder Abuse
If you notice any of these signs of elder mistreatment, seek help immediately from trusted family members, medical personnel, and law enforcement as needed.
1. Unexplained Injuries
Physical injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones, without a clear or consistent explanation, may be the result of physical abuse.
2. Improper Medication Administration
If an individual isn’t being given their medication in the right dosages or intervals, including overdosing or withholding, they may be suffering from physical abuse or neglect.
3. Forced Isolation
Preventing private conversations between adult visitors and elderly family members or residents can often be a tactic to hide abuse or manipulation.
4. Changes in Emotional Tendencies or Personality
Sudden or significant emotional or behavioral challenges, such as abnormal agitation, increased sadness or withdrawal, or surprising personality changes, are often signs of emotional abuse.
5. Abnormal Eating and Sleeping Habits
Disturbed eating or sleeping patterns without a clear reason, such as sickness, can sometimes be linked to emotional distress, neglect, or abuse.
6. Sudden Changes in Bank Account
Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts, uncharacteristic charges on credit cards, and other unexpected financial activity from an elderly individual could mean they are a victim of financial abuse.
7. Loss of Valuable Belongings
Property or even smaller valuable items going missing without any explanation could point to theft or financial abuse.
8. Genital Infections
Genital infections that can’t be linked to a clear cause may be a warning sign of sexual abuse.
9. Blood on Sheets
Evidence of blood on bedding without a clear explanation, such as a sickness or a previously explained injury, can indicate physical or sexual abuse.
10. Unexplained Vaginal Bleeding
Sudden vaginal bleeding that doesn’t appear to be caused by an explainable medical condition requires immediate attention, as it may be a sign of serious abuse.
Navigate the Next Steps with PMP
Once your loved one is removed from immediate danger and is on the path to physical and emotional recovery, it’s time to consider the next steps. If any of these signs of elder abuse occurred in a nursing home, and you believe that the staff is responsible for the mistreatment of your family member, you may be able to pursue a nursing home abuse case.
At PMP, we stand with families in fighting back against these devastating situations. We are ready to provide personalized support for your unique case and help you hold the responsible parties accountable for any losses and suffering. Talk with one of our attorneys to learn how you can regain the justice that was taken from your family.