Older adults who have dementia are more vulnerable to elder abuse. Some of them might indeed be making false accusations that their family members are mistreating them. However, there are cases in which they are actually being abused. Due to their impaired memory, judgment, and communication skills, they are susceptible to abuse by caregivers. Elder abuse is any form of mistreatment towards an older person. If your older adult is unable to recognize what is happening or speak up for themselves, you have to help them. Read on to learn about the warning signs of elder abuse.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is when someone intentionally causes injury or pain to an older adult. This includes isolation and sometimes the inappropriate use of restraints.
Some warning signs include:
- Signs of being restrained such as rope marks on wrists
- Unexplained injuries such as bruises, burns, scars, broken bones, dislocations, or sprains
- Broken eyeglasses
- Reports of drug overdose or not taking the medication regularly
- A caregiver does not let you see the older adult when they are not present
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse is threats, harassment, verbal abuse, intimidation, and humiliation inflicted on individuals. These can be common but harder to spot.
Some warning signs include:
- When you observe any threatening, belittling, or controlling behavior by the caregiver
- If the older adult has unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, unexpected depression, or a sudden change in alertness
- When the older adult seems agitated such as rocking or mumbling to themselves
- If the caregiver does not let you see the older adult when they are not present
Neglect or Self-neglect
When a caregiver does not provide for the older adult adequately or purposely withholds necessities such as clothing, food, shelter, medication, physical assistance, medical care, or a safe environment, it can be considered neglect. There could be the possibility of self-neglect as well where a person with dementia is unable to provide for their own daily needs. This puts them at risk for wandering, falls, malnutrition, and infections.
Some warning signs include:
- Unusual weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Unattended medical needs
- Poor hygiene levels
- Wearing unsuitable clothing for the current weather
- Living in unsafe conditions
- If the older adult is left alone in a public place
Why Choose Aston Gardens At Pelican Pointe?
At Aston Gardens At Pelican Pointe, we are proud to say that we have one of the best senior living communities available in Venice, Florida. We provide you with three different senior living options to choose from: Independent Living, Senior Assisted Living, and SHINE® Memory Care. Here, we have wonderful amenities and services for you to enjoy. Our dedicated team is here to look after our residents’ needs. You can get to enjoy a wide range of activities and events as well to keep you active and engaged. After reading about the warning signs of elder abuse, you might think it is safer for your loved one to stay in our senior living community. Feel free to contact us for more information!
