Signs and Symptoms of Elder Abuse and Neglect
The following are signs and symptoms of elder abuse and neglect:
The older person might:
- have bruises, burns, cuts or more serious injuries like a broken hip or cracked rib;
- appear dehydrated or thin and malnourished;
- be over-medicated, confused or shaking; or
- need dental care, or missing needed eye glasses.
The older person might act:
- afraid all the time or very nervous;
- withdrawn or unwilling to talk;
- depressed, ashamed or overly embarrassed; or
- confused, panicked or lost.
The older person’s family or caregiver might:
- neglect to provide medication or access to proper medical care;
- not keep the older person properly dressed or clean;
- display violent behavior or excessive anger; or
- have a problem with alcohol or drugs.
Signs of financial exploitation might include:
- sudden bank account closing or withdrawals;
- abrupt changes in an older person’s will; or
- an older person living in poverty or without proper care even though he or she has adequate financial resources.