Reporting Elder Abuse

... the Senate Special Committee on Aging estimates that there may be as many as 5 million victims of elder abuse every year.

Signs and symptoms of physical abuse include but are not limited to:

• bruises, black eyes, welts, lacerations, and rope marks;
  
• bone fractures, broken bones, and skull fractures;
  
• open wounds, cuts, punctures, untreated injuries in various stages of healing;
  
• sprains, dislocations, and internal injuries/bleeding;
  
• broken eyeglasses/frames, physical signs of being subjected to punishment, and signs of being restrained;
  
• laboratory findings of medication overdose or under utilization of prescribed drugs;
  
• an elder's report of being hit, slapped, kicked, or mistreated;
  
• an elder's sudden change in behavior; and
  
• the caregiver's refusal to allow visitors to see an elder alone.

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If you suspect that your loved one may be being abused...

1. If they are in immediate danger, call 911
2. If you have a nagging feeling, that something isn't right, call the department of social and health services.
3. If you feel you need support in your actions, contact the National Center on Elder Abuse.

The National Center on Elder Abuse can be reached at (202) 898-2586 or e-mail them at ncea@nasua.org. While they are unable to provide direct casework or handle individual elder abuse cases, they can put you in touch with those who can help.

National Center on Elder Abuse
1201 15th Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20005
Ph: (202) 898-2586
Fax: (202) 898-2583

Here are some more signs of elder abuse

While one sign does not necessarily indicate abuse, some tell-tale signs that there could be a problem are:

• Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, and burns may be an indication of physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.
  
• Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, a sudden change in alertness, and unusual depression may be indicators of emotional abuse.
  
• Bruises around the breasts or genital area can occur from sexual abuse.
  
• Sudden changes in financial situations may be the result of exploitation.
  
• Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss are indicators of possible neglect.
  
• Behavior such as belittling, threats, and other uses of power and control by spouses are indicators of verbal or emotional abuse.
  
• Strained or tense relationships, frequent arguments between the caregiver and elderly person are also signs. (lists and photo are from the National Center on Elder Abuse's website)