XS
SM
MD
LG
XL

This size screen isn't yet supported. We're working on that.

Signs of Aging or Elder Abuse: Know the Difference

  • Jun 11, 2013
  • Meaghan Puglisi
  • 2-min Read

Elder abuse has many forms. According to the National Council on Aging, up to 5 million older Americans are abused every year, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least 2.6 billion.

Abuse could be physical or emotional by adult, children, grandchildren, neighbors or caregivers. Financial abuse could be from the same group or organizations working on behalf of seniors. Healthcare abuse/fraud is caused by overbilling for the same visit/procedure or mismanaging medications. 

How do you recognize the warning signs of elder abuse? The National Center on Elder Abuse suggests you watch for these indicators. Keep in mind that while one sign doesn’t necessarily indicate abuse, it’s important to be alert and document what you find.

Potential indicators:people sitting

  • Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, and burns may be an indication of physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.
  • Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, a sudden change in alertness, and unusual depression may be indicators of emotional abuse.
  • Bruises around the breasts or genital area can occur from sexual abuse.
  • Sudden changes in financial situations may be the result of exploitation.
  • Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss are indicators of possible neglect.
  • Behavior such as belittling, threats and other uses of power and control by spouses are indicators of verbal or emotional abuse.
  • Strained or tense relationships, frequent arguments between the caregiver and elderly person are also signs.

While some indicators may also seem like typical signs of aging or dementia, it’s important you follow your gut. You know your friend or loved one better than anyone – prevention starts with you. Read NCEA’s section on Factsheets & Publications for more information about how you can prevent elder abuse or visit the Elder Justice Coalition.

Our work is devoted to sparking the lives of people in the second half of life. And yet, this group can be vulnerable. June 15 is National Elder Abuse Day. Help us ignite the conversation to stop abuse, recognize the signs and protect the dignity and purpose of those we hold dear.

Together, we can spark lives of everyone in the second half of life and stop elder abuse. Join the conversation: What’s been your experience with elder abuse? How did it impact your life?? And what advice would you share with others?

PROTECT ON!

Other Articles

Seek On Blog (Consumer)

Moving to Senior Living with COMPLETE Support: A Difficult but Smart Decision

Fifty-five years ago, when Nancy and Dick bought 40 acres of land with their best friends, they never imagined leaving. The two young couples built homes next door to each other and raised their families together. They cut their own firewood for heat in the winter, grew their own vegetables, built a barn, and raised […]

READ MORE

Seek On Blog (Consumer)

Ask Ethel – Advice Column for All Things Aging, Magnificently

Ethel has been a nurse for over 50 years, 10 of them with Lifespark. Years ago, when she worked with us, she said, “There’s a beauty about being over 50 that people don’t realize – you can draw from years of experience on many things that seem common sense to you now but didn’t come […]

READ MORE

Seek On Blog (Consumer)

Debunking Hospice Myths, Redefining Hope

The modern hospice movement was founded nearly 60 years ago, yet even today, hospice suffers from an image problem that often prevents people from taking advantage of this life-enhancing health care benefit.  Cindy Crawford, BSN, RN, Clinical Liaison, Lifespark Hospice, is passionate about debunking hospice myths and helping clients and families understand that hospice can […]

READ MORE