Q: Can you write a column on the shameful crime of elder abuse? I've worked for Adult Protective Services for many years, and it seems like this problem doesn't get enough attention.
A: I certainly can. Elder abuse is an immense and often hidden problem.
According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, about 3.5 million seniors are victims of abuse, but research suggests that this crime is significantly under-reported and under-identified. Fewer than 1-in-6 cases of elder abuse get reported to the authorities because the victims are usually too afraid, too embarrassed, too helpless or too trusting to call for help.
The term "elder abuse" is defined as intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes, or can cause, harm to a vulnerable senior. Elder abuse comes in many forms: physical, emotional or psychological, sexual, abandonment, neglect and self-neglect, and financial exploitation, which has increased significantly because of the sour economy.
Those most vulnerable are seniors who are ill, frail, disabled, isolated or mentally impaired because of dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
It's also important to know that although elder abuse happens in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, the majority of incidents take place at home where the senior lives. Tragically, the abusers are most often family members (usually the victim's adult child or spouse) or a caregiver.
So how can you tell if a friend or your loved one is being abused, and what can you do to help?
A change in general behavior is a universal warning sign. If your elder friend or loved one becomes withdrawn or gets upset or agitated easily, start asking questions. Here are additional warning signs that can help you spot a possible problem.
Physical or sexual abuse: Suspicious bruises or other injuries that can't be explained. Sudden changes in behavior (upset, withdrawn, fearful). Broken eyeglasses. Caregiver's refusal to allow visitors to see an elder alone.
Emotional or psychological abuse (insults, intimidation, threats, social isolation): The elder is extremely upset, agitated, withdrawn, unresponsive, fearful or depressed, or demonstrates some other unusual behavior.
Neglect or self-neglect: Malnourishment, weight loss, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, unsanitary and unsafe living conditions.
Financial exploitation: Missing money or valuables. Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts or transfers between accounts. Unauthorized use of credit, debit or ATM card. Unpaid bills despite available funds. Checks written as a loan or gift. Abrupt changes in a will or other documents.
The best ways to help prevent elder abuse is to be in touch and keep the lines of communication open. If you suspect abuse or neglect, call the Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116 or visit the National Center on Elder Abuse website (ncea.aoa.gov) to get the agency contact number in your area. If you feel the person is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local police for immediate help.
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