7 Signs of Elder Abuse: What to Look for & How to Help

We at Stipp Law Firm, have seen firsthand the devastating effects of mistreatment and neglect. If you think that a loved one is suffering from elder abuse, we are here for you. We’ll help you understand what elder abuse looks like, how to recognize the warning signs, and what you can do to protect your loved one from further harm.

Elder Abuse and Its Common Warning Signs

Elder abuse is any intentional act—or failure to act—that causes harm to an older adult. It can happen anywhere: in private homes, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or hospitals. While professional caregivers and nursing home staff are often the focus of elder abuse cases, family members can also be perpetrators.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA), there are seven distinct types of elder abuse, each capable of inflicting profound trauma on victims and their families.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is highly noticeable since it usually results in physical signs such as bruises, cuts, fractures, and burns. This can be brought about by hitting, pushing, slapping, or the improper use of restraint. You also need to keep an eye on bedsores, infections, malnutrition, dehydration, and possible rope marks.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse of an elderly person involves any form of non-consensual sexual contact or coercion. Signs of sexual assault of the elderly may include unexplained bruising or bleeding in private areas, fear, discomfort when touched, and resistance during bathing or dressing.

Neglect 

Neglect is when someone responsible for the well-being of an elderly fails to provide necessary care, including food, shelter, hygiene, or medical attention to them. Unsanitary living conditions, body odor, untreated wounds, and weight loss can give you hints of neglect.

Abandonment

Abandonment happens when a caregiver or responsible party knowingly deserts an elderly person without necessary care or support. This can take the form of leaving them alone during an outing or in an unfamiliar location where they are unable to look out for themselves.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse can be caused by verbal assaults, threats, humiliation, or isolation from loved ones. This can lead to sudden withdrawal from social activities, anxiety around the caregiver, and mood swings or agitation.

Financial Abuse 

Financial abuse is the unlawful use of an elderly person’s finances, assets, or property. Forms of financial abuse can include forging their signature or taking money from their purse or wallet. It’s important to monitor your loved one’s financial statements for any unusual activity, such as large, unexplained withdrawals or the sudden addition of a caregiver’s name to their accounts. These red flags may indicate financial exploitation and should be investigated promptly.

Self-Neglect

Self-neglect of an elder refers to instances where the elder behaves in such a way that it threatens their safety or health. It’s important to reach out to an elder abuse lawyer who can help keep your loved one safe and fight for any compensation they deserve.

Understanding where and how elder abuse happens is the first step in preventing it. If you’re worried about a loved one’s safety, Stipp Law Firm can help you investigate and take legal action.

Who Are Most at Risk for Elder Abuse?

While elder abuse can happen to anyone, certain factors make some seniors more vulnerable, including:

• Cognitive impairments – Seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia may have difficulty communicating or remembering abuse.
• Physical disabilities – Elders with a lack of mobility have a harder time defending themselves.
• Social isolation – An elder who does not have many visitors or interactions is more prone to abuse. Signs can go unnoticed and are less likely to be reported.
• Dependent relationships – If a senior relies entirely on a caregiver for daily needs, they may feel powerless to speak up.

Many families never imagine that their loved ones could be at risk, but the truth is that abuse can happen in any household or care facility. If you suspect something is wrong, trust your instincts. Your loved one may be suffering in silence.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse?

If you suspect that a loved one is being abused, here are some ways to deal with elder abuse:

1. Talk to your loved one – Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgment.
2. Keep a record of the evidence – Take shots of injuries or poor living conditions, and don’t forget to document unusual behavior.
3. Report the abuse – Contact Adult Protective Services (APS) or your state’s elder abuse hotline.
4. Seek legal help – An elder abuse attorney can help you file a claim and hold responsible parties accountable.

At Stipp Law Firm, we have years of experience fighting for elder abuse victims and their families. We can help you build a strong case and ensure your loved one receives justice.

Common Questions About Elder Abuse

What Are the Five Signs of Elder Abuse?

The tell-tale signs of elder abuse can include someone isolating themselves, sudden changes in their mood, increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and situations where they’re clearly not being supervised.

Why Is It Important to Identify Signs of Abuse?

Identifying the signs of abuse will allow you to address the wrong act proactively. A common problem is that people assume their loved ones will open up to them and wait for them to do so. Dependency on the caregiver can stop the elderly from talking about abuse. When you notice something wrong, talk gently to your loved one and do not judge them. Keeping an open mind is key to earning their trust.

What Do You Do if You Suspect a Person Was Abused?

If you see something that worries you, report it. Contact the county or the police. Your observation is enough, you don’t need to be sure. Professionals will take it from there and investigate.

Elder Abuse Legal Support: Contact Stipp Law Firm Today

No one deserves to suffer at the hands of neglectful or abusive caregivers, especially not your loved ones. If you suspect elder abuse, don’t wait to take action.

At Stipp Law Firm, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of elderly individuals. Our experienced elder abuse attorneys will stand by your side, helping you build a strong case and hold negligent parties accountable.

Contact us today for a FREE consultation. We will help you get the justice and protection that your loved ones deserve.