Elder abuse often hides in plain sight. Learning the warning signs helps you protect a loved one before harm escalates.
What are the physical signs of elder abuse?
The National Institute on Aging identifies physical abuse as causing bodily harm, including hitting, pushing, slapping, or restraining an older adult against their will. Warning signs include unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or fractures; injuries in various stages of healing; broken eyeglasses; signs of restraint such as marks on wrists; and a caregiver's refusal to let you see the older adult alone. Frequent emergency visits or a delay in seeking medical care can also signal abuse. Any pattern of injuries the explanation does not fit deserves a closer look and, when warranted, a report.
What does neglect and emotional abuse look like?
Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to meet an older adult's needs, withholding food, medications, hygiene, or healthcare. Signs include sudden weight loss, dehydration, soiled clothing or bedding, untreated bedsores, unsafe living conditions, and missed medications. Emotional abuse, per the National Institute on Aging, includes hurtful words, yelling, threats, ignoring the person, or isolating them from friends and family. Watch for new fearfulness, withdrawal, depression, agitation around a particular caregiver, or reluctance to speak openly. Self-neglect, where a senior cannot or will not meet their own needs, is also reportable to Adult Protective Services.
What are the signs of financial exploitation?
Financial exploitation can be harder to see. Red flags include sudden bank withdrawals, unpaid bills despite adequate funds, missing cash or valuables, new names added to accounts or deeds, abrupt changes to wills or powers of attorney, and a new best friend who controls the senior's money. Unfamiliar signatures, unusual credit card activity, and a caregiver who blocks access to financial records also warrant concern. If you notice these signs, document them and report to Adult Protective Services and the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11. For help finding the right resource, call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427).