What Are the Signs of Elder Abuse?

Most physical wounds heal in time. But elder abuse can cause harm to physical and psychological health, destroy social and family ties, lead to devastating financial loss, and more. Any type of mistreatment can leave the abused person feeling fearful and depressed. Sometimes, the victim thinks the abuse is his or her fault.
 
The most common forms of elder abuse
 
Physical abuse happens when someone causes bodily harm by hitting, pushing, or slapping. This may also include restraining an older adult against their will, such as locking them in a room or tying them to furniture.
Emotional abuse, sometimes called psychological abuse, can include a caregiver saying hurtful words, yelling, threatening, or repeatedly ignoring the older adult. Keeping that person from seeing close friends and relatives is another form of emotional abuse.
Neglect occurs when the caregiver does not try to respond to the older adult's needs. This may include physical, emotional, and social needs, or withholding food, medications, or access to health care.
Abandonment is leaving an older adult who needs help alone without planning for his or her care.
Sexual abuse involves a caregiver forcing an older adult to watch or be part of sexual acts.
Financial abuse happens when money or belongings are stolen from an older adult. It can include forging checks, taking someone else's retirement or Social Security benefits, or using a person's credit cards and bank accounts without their permission. It also includes changing names on a will, bank account, life insurance policy, or title to a house without permission.
 
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse.

• Loses weight for no reason
• Becomes withdrawn
• Becomes agitated or violent
• Stops taking part in activities the previously enjoyed
• Displays signs of trauma, like rocking back and forth
• Has trouble sleeping
• Neglects personal hygiene
• Has unexplained bruises, cuts, or scars
• Has broken eyeglasses
• Physical signs of punishment or being restrained
• Develops bed sores or other preventable conditions
• Has hazardous, unsafe, or unclean living conditions

If you see signs of abuse, try talking with the person to find out what's going on. 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. Elder abuse will not stop on its own. Someone else needs to step in and help. Many older adults are too ashamed to report mistreatment and they often worry if they make a report it will get back to the abuser and make the situation worse.

In most states doctors, lawyers and professional caregivers are mandatory reporters in cases of elder abuse. Family and friends can also report it. Do not wait. Help is available.
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If you think someone is in urgent danger, call 911 or your local police to get help right away.