The abuse of elderly people is a serious global problem that often goes unnoticed or unreported. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) figures, around 1 in 6 people aged 60 and older experience some form of abuse in community settings, while the rates are even higher in long-term care facilities. 

According to a National Council on Aging fact sheet, the problem may be slightly less prevalent in the US compared to the global average with one in ten Americans aged 60 plus being affected. This abuse can also take a heavy mental toll, with victims being far more likely to experience fear and anxiety and to withdraw from normal activities.   

Recognizing, preventing, and addressing elder abuse is crucial for caregivers, family members, and society as a whole. This guide provides insights into the various types of elder abuse, signs to watch for, strategies to address concerns, and tips for creating a safe and respectful environment for older adults.

Understanding Elder Abuse and Recognizing the Signs

Elder abuse can take many forms—physical, emotional, financial, and neglect—each with its own set of signs. Being aware of these signs and understanding how to identify them is the first step in safeguarding the well-being of older adults.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse includes any form of bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, or using force that results in pain or injury.

Signs of Physical Abuse

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or fractures.
• Frequent medical visits or sudden changes in healthcare providers.
• Broken or missing assistive devices, signs of restraint, or other injuries without explanation.

Preventative Tips

• Encourage Open Communication: Build trust so that the older adult feels comfortable discussing any physical issues or injuries.
• Report Suspicious Injuries: If any physical signs seem suspicious or concerning, report them to authorities immediately.

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse involves actions that cause emotional pain, fear, or distress. This can include verbal harassment, intimidation, isolation, or humiliation.

Signs of Emotional Abuse:

• Withdrawal from social activities, family, or friends.
• Unusual changes in behavior, such as depression, anxiety, or fearfulness around certain individuals.
• Unexplained loss of confidence or decreased self-esteem.

Preventative Tips:

• Encourage Social Engagement: Involve the older adult in community activities, family gatherings, and other social events to reduce isolation.
• Regularly Check In: Routine communication through visits, phone calls, or video chats can help identify sudden emotional changes.

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse is the misuse or theft of an older adult's resources. This form of abuse is often perpetrated by those who are closest to the elder, such as family members or caregivers. 

Signs of Financial Abuse:

• Sudden changes in bank account balances or withdrawals that the older adult cannot explain.
• Missing possessions, unusual credit card charges, or unpaid bills.
• New “friends” or caregivers who seem overly interested in the older adult's financial situation.

Preventative Tips:

• Encourage Financial Transparency: Suggest maintaining a budget or tracking expenses that both the older adult and a trusted family member can review.
• Consider Legal Protections: Establishing a power of attorney or a financial advisor can help protect an older adult’s finances from unauthorized access.

Neglect

Neglect involves the failure of a caregiver or responsible party to provide the necessary care, which can lead to health issues or other adverse consequences. This is particularly common in cases where caregivers are overwhelmed or lack proper training.

Signs of Neglect:

• Poor hygiene, unkempt appearance, or unsanitary living conditions.
• Dehydration, malnutrition, or bedsores due to a lack of basic care.
• Unattended medical needs, such as missing medications or untreated illnesses.

Preventative Tips:

• Ensure Adequate Training for Caregivers: Training can equip caregivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to fulfil the role adequately.
• Regular Health Assessments: Routine medical check-ups can facilitate early detection of signs of neglect or deterioration in health.

Reporting Elder Abuse Concerns

Reporting elder abuse is a critical step in stopping and preventing further harm. In the United States, every state has an Adult Protective Services (APS) agency responsible for investigating and responding to reports of elder abuse. Here’s how caregivers can responsibly report suspected elder abuse:

• Document Observations: If you notice any signs of abuse, write down details such as dates, descriptions of injuries, and interactions with individuals involved. This documentation can provide valuable evidence if an investigation is needed.
• Contact Adult Protective Services (APS): Each state has a dedicated APS hotline that can guide you on how to report abuse. APS is equipped to conduct investigations and offer assistance.
• Involve Local Law Enforcement if Necessary: If the abuse is immediate or life-threatening, do not hesitate to call 911. Police can intervene in emergency situations and provide protection.
• Report Financial Abuse to Relevant Financial Institutions: In cases of financial abuse, banks and credit unions have policies in place to protect vulnerable account holders. Alerting financial institutions can help freeze accounts and prevent further misuse.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment

Preventing elder abuse also involves creating a safe, comfortable, and respectful environment. For caregivers, this means providing care with compassion, patience, and understanding.

1. Build Respectful Relationships: Ensure that older adults are treated with respect and dignity. This includes listening to their preferences, involving them in decisions, and giving them a sense of control over their lives.
2. Encourage Social Engagement: Many older adults experience isolation, which increases their vulnerability to abuse. Caregivers can encourage participation in senior centers, social clubs, or community activities that foster connections and friendships.
3. Offer Emotional Support: Emotional support and companionship are essential components of a safe environment. Caregivers should strive to build trust, understanding, and open communication with older adults.
4. Encourage Self-Advocacy: Educate older adults on their rights and help them understand the importance of speaking up about any concerns or discomfort. This can empower them to protect themselves against potential abuse.
5. Recognize Caregiver Burnout: Caregiver burnout is a common risk factor for elder neglect or abuse. By acknowledging when they need help, caregivers can prevent burnout and ensure they have the capacity to care properly. 

Conclusion

Elder abuse can be a deeply distressing issue, especially if the victim is a loved one. By staying vigilant and informed in your role as a caregiver, you can make a significant difference in the quality of life of your patient. By implementing some of the measures we’ve discussed, you can help avoid or stop the abuse and keep your patient safe. 

At LL Medico, we understand the challenges of dealing with elder abuse and the emotional anguish it can cause for the victims as well as their loved ones and caregivers. While we’re not in a position to prevent or deal with this abuse, we can take away some of the stress of caregiving by managing your care supplies. 

With our Autoship feature, we can ensure that you always have adult diapers, skin care products, nutritional supplements and much more at hand whenever you need them. Call us today at (855) 422-4556 or email support@llmedico.com.    

As Maya Angelou wisely said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” With your dedication and attention, we want to help you ensure that your loved one or patient feels safe, valued, and respected in this late stage of their life.