What Are Signs of Abuse?
You may see signs of abuse or neglect when you visit an older adult at home or in an eldercare facility. You may notice the person:
Stops taking part in activities he or she enjoys
Looks messy, with unwashed hair or dirty clothes
Has trouble sleeping Share this infographic and help spread the word about recognizing the signs of elder abuse.
Loses weight for no reason
Becomes withdrawn or acts agitated or violent
Displays signs of trauma, like rocking back and forth
Has unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or scars
Has broken eyeglasses/frames, or physical signs of punishment or being restrained
Develops bed sores or other preventable conditions
Lacks medical aids (glasses, walker, dentures, hearing aid, medications)
Has an eviction notice for unpaid rent, notice of late mortgage, or home eviction
Has hazardous, unsafe, or unclean living conditions
Displays signs of insufficient care or unpaid bills despite adequate financial resources
If you see signs of abuse, try talking with the older adult to find out what's going on. For instance, the abuse may be from another resident and not from someone who works at the nursing home or assisted living facility. Most importantly, get help or report what you see to adult protective services. You do not need to prove that abuse is occurring. Professionals will investigate.
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