Most of us want what is best for our loved ones and work hard to make that happen. No one wants to think about things like elder abuse, but unfortunately, it’s more common than many realize.
June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, an opportunity to highlight what elder abuse and neglect is, and how to recognize and prevent it.
Elder abuse has been recognized by the United Nations as a human rights and public health issue and is sadly prevalent around the world.
How can you recognize elder abuse and neglect?
Abuse can happen to any older person, by a loved one, a hired caregiver, or a stranger. Abuse can happen at home, at a relative’s home, or in an eldercare facility.
There are many types of abuse:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Sexual
- Abandonment
- Financial
- Neglect
Watch for these signs of abuse:
- Seems depressed, confused, or withdrawn
- Isolated from friends and family
- Has unexplained bruises, burns, or scars
- Appears dirty, underfed, dehydrated, over-or under-medicated, or not receiving needed care for medical problems
- Has bed sores or other preventable conditions
- Recent changes in banking or spending patterns
- Talk with the older adult and then contact the local Adult Protective Services, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, or the police.
The staff here at PACE of the Southern Piedmont is committed to recognizing and addressing signs of elder abuse. There are often many social, cultural, and demographic factors at play, and it is our goal to alleviate the burdens of caretakers and to provide vital services to help give seniors the quality of life they deserve.
Are you a senior or caregiver of an older adult in search of support? Contact us to see how PACE can help: call (704) 887-3840.