Elder abuse is an all too common problem that affects millions of elderly people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse and neglect. Sadly, elder abuse often goes unrecognized or unreported due to a lack of awareness about the signs and symptoms.
As a result, it’s important to be aware of what constitutes elder abuse so we can recognize it when we see it and intervene with authorities or an elder abuse lawyer if necessary. In this blog post, we’ll discuss eight signs of elder abuse that you should watch out for.
1. Bruises, welts, and other physical signs of injury
If you notice any unexplained marks or bruises on someone’s body, this could be a sign of physical abuse. Look out for cuts, scratches, burns, broken bones, or wounds that don’t appear to have been treated quickly enough.
2. Unexplained withdrawal from activities
If your elderly loved one suddenly stops participating in activities they used to enjoy, this could be a sign of elder abuse. Look out for changes in behaviors such as not wanting to leave the house, expressing feelings of fear or anxiety, or isolating themselves from friends and family.
3. Financial exploitation
Watch out for signs that someone is taking advantage of an elderly person financially. This could include sudden or unexplained changes to their will, bank account, or other financial documents without their knowledge or consent. It could also include large withdrawals from their bank accounts with no explanation.
4. Unusual weight loss or malnutrition
If your loved one has suddenly lost a significant amount of weight and appears malnourished, this could be a sign of neglect. Elderly people need proper nutrition to stay healthy and maintain their strength, so look out for any signs that they are not getting the food or care they need.
5. Poor hygiene or unsafe living conditions
Elderly people have a right to live in safe and clean environments. If you notice that your loved one is not taking care of themselves or their living space, this could be a sign that they are not getting the help they need.
6. Unpaid bills and lack of basic necessities
If your elderly loved one has unpaid bills and lacks basic necessities like food and clothing, this could be a sign of financial exploitation or neglect. Look out for any indications that someone is taking advantage of their finances or not providing for their basic needs.
7. Unexplained changes in mood or behavior
Elder abuse can take a toll on an elderly person’s mental and emotional well-being. Watch out for signs of depression, anxiety, fear, confusion, or aggression that you didn’t notice before. These could be signs that something is wrong.
8. Unexplained changes in their bank account or credit card activity
Watch out for any sudden or unexplained changes to your elderly loved one’s bank account or credit card activity. This could be a sign of financial exploitation, so look out for large withdrawals with no explanation and other unusual transactions.
If You Suspect Elder Abuse, Take Action Now
If you suspect that your elderly loved one is being abused, it’s important to take action right away. Report your concerns to the appropriate authorities and contact a qualified elder abuse lawyer if necessary. Together, we can help put a stop to elder abuse and ensure that all elderly people are safe and protected.