Did you know that one in ten individuals over the age of 60 have experienced abuse? According to the National Council of Aging, about five million senior Americans face elder abuse yearly! The act can be a singular occurrence or repeated. The abuse can be committed by family, long-term care staff or friends.
Elder abuse can be:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Verbal
- Psychological
- Sexual
- Neglect
- Financial exploitation
- Healthcare fraud and scams
The abuse of seniors can occur at home, in institutions and community settings. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that women are more likely to be abused than men, yet seniors who are isolated, physically disabled or mentally impaired are also vulnerable.
Warning signs of elder abuse:
- Bruises, broken bones, burns, abrasions, pressure marks, scars
- Lack of proper medical needs, deprivation
- Inappropriate use of drugs or restraints
- Bedsores, odor, weight loss, poor personal hygiene
- Withdrawal, depression, strained relationships, sudden changes in attitude with a caregiver
- Yelling, threats, humiliation, abuse of power to control,
- Isolation from others, exposure to unsafe activities, confinement
- Sudden change in finances, abandonment
The number of abused elders is expected to rise as more baby boomers reach retirement. This form of abuse will not stop on its own, it is up to our community to speak up and defend our seniors. There is strength in numbers. If you suspect someone of elder abuse, take immediate action and report it. Do not confront the suspect. There are Adult Protective Services nationwide which respond to reports of elder abuse. Do not wait, the earlier someone intervenes the better the outcome will be. The team at OurSeniors.net truly believes, that our seniors deserve to live their golden years safe, happy and in peace.
If you suspect that a senior is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local police. You also can contact 1-800-677-1116 to access the Eldercare Locator or find local resources at the National Center on Elder Abuse.
For information about any senior-related need, you may contact an OurSeniors.net Advisor by phone at 866-333-2657 (se habla Español), or by using Contact Us. Take an online look at our senior living magazine, OurSeniors.net Magazine. You can view the entire OurSeniors.net Directory of Approved Vendors at OurSeniors.net Approved Vendors and Partners.
