What Constitutes Elder Abuse and Neglect?

Written by Adam Peck Category: Elder Abuse January 26th, 2013 3 min read

Definitions of Elder Abuse and Neglect are Diverse

Some sources define elder abuse and neglect as only physical abuse while other sources include emotional abuse, sexual abuse and financial abuse. Accurate numbers are also extremely difficult to compile since many incidents of abuse go unreported. Many elderly are afraid or ashamed to report incidents of abuse, especially if the perpetrator is a family member. Seniors at times are emotionally or physically abused by a familiar person, and are often unable to recognize it as abuse or rationalize it.

What can be done to eliminate incidences of elder abuse? Society should shoulder the responsibility to protect the elderly, but it begins with the family of the senior. Many of the children and other relatives of the elderly feel that once they have a caregiver to care for the elderly their work is done. Far from it, they need to remain vigilant in directing and overseeing that good care is, in fact, what is provided.

When visiting an elder loved one, you should be alert to the warning signs of abuse:

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Are there insults or threats directed at the elder? Are they living in social isolation? The elder may be extremely upset, withdrawn, unresponsive, or exhibiting other unusual behavior. He or she may have a vacant look in their eyes or exhibit fear; they may not always express those verbally, so look for signs in their face or behavior.

Physical and Sexual Abuse:

Look for suspicious bruises or other injuries. Look for signs of restraints, such as a rope burns. See if he or she shows sudden changes of behavior, such as unexplained anger, fear, withdrawal, or has become very quiet. Note if a worker or caregiver refuses to let you visit the elder, making all kind of excuses.

Neglect:

Look for signs of malnutrition, if there is noticeable weight loss, dehydration, bed sores, or if personal hygiene is noticeable neglected. Note if the elder is sitting in soiled clothing, unshaven, unkempt, without dentures, or with long or dirty nails, are they walking around at midday still wearing pajamas? Listen to complaints from the senior as to whether or not their aide is listening to them or following their wishes and follow up on them.

Financial Abuse:

Keep an eye out for unexplained bank withdrawals, unauthorized use of bank and credit cards, reports of stolen or missing checkbooks and bank cards, or if your parent or elder writes checks as a loan or gift to the aide. Be on the lookout for valuables suddenly disappearing. Monitor any sudden changes in the will or banking documents, and be alert if assets are suddenly transferred to a family member or to someone outside the family.

– from Steven Peck, Senior Attorney at Peck Law Group

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Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.