How to Advocate for Elders at Risk of Abuse

Older Americans are among the most vulnerable members of society and are therefore some of those most prone to becoming victims of abuse. Elder abuse can take many forms, from physical harm to emotional manipulation, financial exploitation, and neglect. Elderly individuals may struggle to recognize and fight abuse on their own, making it critical for others to advocate for them whenever possible.

Understanding the Signs of Elder Abuse

There are several different types of elder abuse. Here are some ways to recognize them:

Physical

Physical abuse is the most visible type of abuse. It can often be recognized by indications of trauma on the body, such as bruises or cuts. In some cases, there may be signs that an older adult has been restrained, such as having rope marks on their wrists or ankles. Red flags of physical abuse can also include damaged clothing and personal items, such as torn shirts or broken glasses. Another potential warning sign is if the caregiver refuses or is hesitant to let others speak with the elder unsupervised.

Emotional and psychological

Emotional and psychological abuse can generally be recognized based on an older adult's behavior. They may appear agitated, depressed, or at times unresponsive. In some cases, their daily routines may change, such as eating or sleeping more or less. Abused individuals may also adopt new habits like fidgeting or rocking back and forth. As with physical abuse, a caregiver's behavior can also serve as an indicator of emotional abuse if they appear to be domineering over an older adult.

Financial

Financial abuse of an older adult can be more difficult to identify than other forms of abuse, especially without access to the adult's financial activity. One sign of abuse may be unusual bank transactions, such as numerous large withdrawals. Disappearance of cash or valuable physical items can also be an indicator. In other cases, there may be changes to the elder's estate, including their will or power of attorney. Other signs of financial abuse may include an older adult receiving substandard care when their finances would allow for better care, or being provided with services that are unnecessary and expensive.

Sexual

Sexual abuse of the elderly can be identified both by physical signs on the body as well as by behavioral changes. Physical indicators may include bruises around the genitals as well as bleeding from these areas. There may also be signs of blood or bodily fluids on clothing or bed sheets. Like psychological abuse, an older adult who is being sexually abused may develop certain habits or fears, especially around specific individuals. In some instances, there may even be signs of an elder being shown pornographic material.

Neglect

Neglect can be recognized by assessing an older adult's overall health and living conditions. Signs of neglect may include dehydration or malnutrition. If the elder is generally immobile, an indicator of neglect may include bodily wounds such as pressure sores. In other cases, the adult may have wounds or health conditions that have been left untreated for a significant time. Infrequent bathing and other indications of poor hygiene are also a red flag of neglect. Lastly, neglect may be evident within the individual's living space, such as filthy furniture and floors or lack of heat and running water.

Practical Steps to Advocate for Elders and Prevent Abuse

Even if you do not think that elder abuse is happening, you can take steps to prevent it and improve the quality of life of older individuals you care about. These are some suggestions:

Stay in Touch Regularly

The more isolated an older adult is, the more they are at risk of being abused or neglected. A call, video chat, or in-person visit is the best way to stay involved. It allows you to detect signs of abuse or neglect and signals to the nursing home or adult living facility that you are monitoring the individual's care. Try visiting unannounced if you suspect a problem.

Encourage Communication and Trust

Let the elder know that he or she can contact you anytime they need to. Use validating and supporting language whenever speaking with the person, and make sure the two of you have opportunities to speak in private. Also, focus on specific concerns the person may have. Limit speculation but instead talk about what exactly the person has seen or heard that could indicate abuse or neglect.

Create a Support Network

You may not be able to visit the elder or be responsive to their needs at all times, so it can be helpful to create a support network of others who the elder can rely on. These may be friends or family members who can regularly check in with and care for the elder. You also should encourage the elder to be socially active with their community and friends in order to avoid isolation and loneliness.

Secure Financial Protections

If possible, monitor their financial transactions, purchases, and other activities of an older adult. Because the internet, email, and social media are rife with scams, it is also wise to educate the elder in recognizing them so they can take steps to protect themselves. In some cases, you may even wish to explore the possibility of establishing a power of attorney to better secure the older adult's finances.

Take Advantage of Local Resources

There are likely numerous resources within your community and state which are dedicated to preventing elder abuse and neglect. These may include senior centers, local government agencies, and nonprofits. These organizations can assist you in caring for an elderly loved one in many different ways and provide answers to various questions you may have about elder care.

How to Report Elder Abuse

If there is clear evidence of elder abuse, acting quickly is vital to protecting the victim's well-being. Call 911 or the police if the elder is in immediate, life-threatening danger. Otherwise, notify local adult protective services, a long-term care ombudsman, or police non-emergency services.

If you suspect abuse but are unsure, try to speak with the elder alone. Ask questions about their current conditions and explain that you want to get them assistance if needed. In addition, consider speaking with an elder abuse attorney. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are often reluctant to discuss problems with family members or they may conceal or destroy evidence. The facility might refuse to speak with you by citing privacy laws as a justification. An attorney can get the courts involved, stop the abuse or neglect, and seek compensation for the older adult's injuries or losses. Taking quick action is essential to protecting the elder's rights and giving you and your family peace of mind.