indicators of elder abuse

Physical Indicators

¨Injuries that have not been properly cared for

¨Injuries incompatible with history

¨Cuts, lacerations or puncture wounds

¨Bruises, welts, discoloration, especially bilateral/multiple in various stages of healing

¨Dehydration, malnourishment or weight loss without medical explanation

¨Pallor or poor skin hygiene

¨Sunken eyes or cheeks

¨Evidence of inadequate care, such as improperly cared for bedsores

¨Eye problems, retinal detachment

¨Pulled out hair

¨Soiled clothing or bed; left in own waste

¨Burns such as cigarettes, acids, or ropes

¨Locked in room; tied to furniture or toilet

¨Broken bones

 

Family/Caregiver Indicators

¨Indifference or hostility to client

¨Excessive blaming of client

¨Problems with alcohol or drugs

¨Previous history of violence

¨Failure to comply with the care plan

¨Social isolation of the victim/withholding of affection

¨Conflicting accounts of incidents

¨Threats and intimidation of client

 

Financial Indicators

¨Unpaid bills when income is adequate

¨Food, clothing, & care needs not being met

¨Overcharged for rent or services

¨Personal loans not repaid

¨Complaints of thefts of property or money

¨Missing checks, jewelry or other valuables

¨Power of Attorney signed by confused person

¨Suspicious changes in title to property

¨Caregiver overly concerned with person’s money

¨Promises of lifelong care in exchange for assets

¨ATM transactions by home-bound elder

¨Utility shut-offs or threats

¨Large telephone bills run up by caregiver

¨Checks for food, etc., written over amount needed

¨Large or unusual bank transactions

 

Behavioral Indicators (of Elder)

¨Withdrawn, depressed, resigned, helpless

¨Hesitates to talk openly

¨Gives implausible stories about injuries or events

¨Denies problems

¨Appears fearful of caregiver or family member

¨Has lost touch with family & friends other than caregiver or alleged abuser