Senior Sunrise

Taking care of an elderly individual is a tremendous strain and a tremendously difficult proposition. But done with love, affection, and care, it can also be a rewarding experience. Still, because of the inherently difficult nature of the work, there are a growing number of cases of elder abuse every year. The following are some behaviors that people should watch for in elder care providers, as it might be indicative of abuse.

Of course, these behaviors are not a telltale sign of adult abuse. Rather, they are simply cause to check into the situation in greater detail. As such, watch for caregivers that don’t allow the elderly individual to speak to visitors. Also, watch for aggressive, unloving, or otherwise angry behavior towards the elder. And just as a risk factor, be careful when caregivers have a history of drug abuse, metal illness, or any kind of criminal behavior.

Adult Protective Services, or APS, refers to publicly funded programs which investigate and intervene in reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults who are physically or mentally impaired and unable  to protect themselves from harm.

Each of us has a moral obligation to “watch out for our brother & sister”. 

• For those who cannot speak for themselves, we must call out.
• For those who cannot use their eyes, we must see. 
• For those who cannot hear, we must listen and be attentive.
• For those who cannot use their limbs, we must move to assist them.

Physical Signs     Behavior Signs     Signs by Caregiver     Signs of Financial Abuse

Whenever you hear about an elderly person that is neglected, exploited or abused, you really get mad at those people who take advantage of them.  Elderly abuse is not an unusual or uncommon occurrence.  It can happen in their own homes or in institutional homes where they are placed.  Even family members can be guilty of the crime.

Abuse can be seen in different ways.  One type is physical abuse where the elderly are inflicted physical pain by beating or hitting and causing physical injury.  There is emotional abuse and sexual abuse as well.  They can be exploited by spending their money, selling their assets and resources without their consent.  Any form of elderly abuse should be reported immediately.

We are all aware of child abuse.  What we are not as informed about is abuse of the elderly. We are a society that is worried about our population that is growing older by the day.  It is a consolation to know that there is an agency called Adult Protective Services or APS whose mission is to provide protection against adult abuse. 

The APS is responsible for investigating abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults who are elderly or have disabilities. It is a non-profit association which shares information and improves the quality of services for victims of adult abuse.