7 Signs of Elder Abuse and How to Help in Pennsylvania

It is a sad reality that elder abuse occurs on a regular basis in America. Elder abuse is widespread and impacts everyone in our society. One out of nine elders suffers abuse in one form or another

As the Baby Boomer generation gets older and the number of elders in America increases, it will become all the more important to be aware of the warning signs of elder abuse.

Just like other kinds of abuse, elder abuse can take various forms:

Physical: Inflicting pain or injury through such actions as slapping, hitting, bruising or restraining. Physical abuse can also be inflicted through medication tampering—giving too much or withholding medication.

Sexual: Any nonconsensual sexual contact, whether comprehended or not.

Emotional: Inflicting mental anguish or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts such as threatening, intimidating or humiliating.

Neglect: Failure to provide food, clothing, shelter, healthcare or protection.

Financial: Illegal use, misuse or concealment of funds, property, assets or benefits for someone else’s gain.

Abandonment: Desertion of a vulnerable adult.

If a senior loved one has visible signs of injury, physical abuse or neglect may be occurring. Some people may be naturally prone to injury, so it is crucial to attempt to find out how injuries may have occurred. Physical injury can happen as a result of physical abuse, restraint, neglect or sexual abuse. Physical injuries and signs may include:

An older adult getting neglectful care may additionally show poor personal and environmental hygiene. Any of the following types of substandard hygiene may indicate neglect:

The individual may also show signs of tension in their relationship with a specific caregiver. Warning signs may include:

An elderly individual may show signs of medical neglect, which include:

Many signs of financial exploitation may occur as unusual financial behavior to include:

Inappropriate abandonment could be a sign of neglect or abuse. As an example, abandonment may occur:

An abused or neglected elder may also show strange or unexpected behavioral changes, including:

If you suspect an elder is being abused, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s 24 hour hotline at 1-800-490-8505. 

Chosen Family is here for you and your loved one. Our trained specialists can help recognize the signs of elder abuse and offer resources for your loved one. Contact us today for supportive and compassionate caregivers of home care for your loved one. Read more of our insights for caring and practical resources for you or your loved one. 

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