Tomorrow is Worldwide Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder abuse is much more commonplace than you might think, and it can take the form of physical abuse, neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, or financial abuse. Here are some warning signs for each type:
Physical Abuse: Slap marks, unexplained bruises, and certain types of burns or blisters, such as cigarette burns.
Neglect: Pressure ulcers, filth, lack of medical care, malnutrition or dehydration.
Sexual Abuse: Bruises around the breasts or genital area.
Finacial Abuse: Sudden change in finances and accounts, altered wills or trusts, unusual bank withdrawals, checks written as "loans" or "gifts," and loss of property.
Here are 4 ways you can help prevent elder abuse.
1. Report suspected mistreatment to your local adult protective services agency or law enforcement.
2. Keep in contact. Talk with your older friends, neighbors, and relatives. Maintaining communication will help decrease isolation, a risk factor for mistreatment. It will also give them a chance to discuss any problems they are experiencing.
3. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging office to identify local programs and sources of support, such as Meals on Wheels. Thse programs help elders to maintain health, well-being, and independence - all good defenses against abuse.
4. Vounteer. There are many local opportunities to become involved in programs that provide assistance and support for elders.
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