Davis Law Group, P.S.

Signs and Symptoms of Elder Abuse

In a previous article, we discussed the different types of elder abuse. But, how can you know if the senior is being abused? What are warning signs and symptoms?

Let’s take a look.

Physical abuse:

• Bruises, welts, or scars with no explanations

• Broken bones, sprains or dislocations

• Report of drug overdose or failure to take medication regularly

• Broken glasses

• Rope marks on wrists

• Caregiver’s refusal for you to see them alone

Emotional abuse:

• Threatening, belittling, controlling tactics and behavior

• Mimicking behavior

Sexual abuse:

•  Bruises around breasts or genitals

• Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections

• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding

Neglect by caregivers:

• Weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration

• Physical problems that have not been treated

• Unsanitary living environment

• Bad hygiene

• Unsuitable clothing

• Unsafe living conditions

Financial exploitation

• Large withdrawls from bank account

• Changes in financial situation

• Items or cash missing Changes in wills, power of attorney, titles and policies

• Addition of names to cards

• Unpaid bills

• Financial activity the senior couldn’t have done on its own, such as go to an ATM if they cannot drive anymore

• Unnecessary purchases, services or subscriptions

Healthcare fraud and abuse:

• Duplicate billing from doctor

• Evidence of over or under medication

• Problems wih nursing care facility

Source:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/elder_abuse_physical_emotional_sexual_neglect.htm


Click here to read "What is Elder Abuse?"