Warning Signs of Elder Abuse
Abuse on the elderly is horrible and often does not get reported. This silent crime really takes it toll on the elderly and is a shame that it even should be discussed. If you have relatives or friends that attend senior activity centers, assisted residential living centers, full care residential centers or have a home care assistant, you should be aware of the warning signs of elder abuse.
One warning sign that many people do not think about is a change in appetite. The senior might suddenly eat more as a comfort or eat less because of depression. Find out if changes in appetite are due to changes in medication or a possible warning sign of mistreatment.
Unexplained bruises, contusions or marks on the senior can also be an indication of abuse. If the senior is falling a lot or bumping into things a lot someone is not keeping a close enough eye on them. It is imperative that you find out the cause for the bruises and other signs on the skin.
Abuse is not just physical. If the senior becomes suddenly depressed, someone might be emotionally abusing them by calling them names, treating them disrespectfully or even belittling them.
Drop in un-announced at different times of the day and the night to check in on your senior relative or friend. Let the management know that you are concerned about probably abuse and ask for some type of assistance to find out what is going on to cause the changes and bring you concern. Get a solution for the situation or go to the state board and have the facility investigated.
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