Tips for Preventing Elder Abuse
Like children, elderly people are vulnerable to an array of abuses, and need to be protected from predatory behavior. In the United States, half a million cases of abuse are reported every year, and many more go unreported.
The signs of elder abuse and neglect can range from the subtle to the obvious. Here are some signals that your loved one may be suffering at the hands of an abuser.
- Physical fitness. In this case, we are talking about the consistent hygiene, care of the person, wellness and maintenance of health. Any sudden changes in weight, cognition, sleeping or eating patterns or outward appearance could be signs that an elderly loved one is not getting the care that he or she needs from a caregiver.
- This is quite simply, the failure of a caregiver to fulfill a caretaking obligation. Inadequate food, drink, lack of medical care, unhealthy living situations constitute neglect. More than half of all reported cases of elder abuse are neglect.
- Harm to the body or emotions. Intentional harm, whether it’s slapping, hitting, pushing, intimidating, ridiculing, terrorizing or sexually molesting an elderly person is abuse. Look for bruises, fearful behavior, isolation, failure to thrive in the elderly person as signs.
- Financial abuse. Because the elderly are vulnerable, predators might attempt to steal jewelry and valuables, scam, intimidate or trick an elderly person. Check that possessions and accounts are secured from outside—and sometimes inter- family —threats.
At Kansas City Home Care, we care about how our elderly and aging population is treated. Our skilled caregivers undergo rigorous background checks and are overseen by care professionals to check that their work is of the highest quality. Your family member is worth the best, safest care, especially if he or she has memory loss. Contact us today for more information.
The post Tips for Preventing Elder Abuse appeared first on Kansas City Home Care.
REQUEST FREE
IN HOME ASSESSMENT
REQUEST FREE IN HOME ASSESSMENT






