Abuse and neglect of the elderly and otherwise vulnerable continues to be a major problem in the United States. Many victims are unable to recognize or report abuse and neglect because of their mental states (especially if affected by drugs or dementia), because they are disabled or weak, or because they are afraid of retaliation.

Elder abuse and neglect can result in both physical and mental injuries. In many cases, nursing home injuries and premature death are preventable and caused by incompetence, negligence, or abuse by staff or preventable injury caused by a roommate or other fellow resident. Sometimes nursing homes fail to disclose hazards and dangers.

Recognizing Signs of Elder Abuse

Often called the “silent condition,” the signs of elder abuse can be surprisingly difficult to identify, as the damage is often done behind closed doors and away from the eyes of family members. It can also take many forms, ranging from serious emotional and sexual abuse, to receiving limited medical care and attention from staff.

There are some obvious forms of abuse, such as physical violence or force, resulting in either impairment, bodily injury, or pain to the elderly victim. But there are other forms of abuse that are not so obvious or visible. Emotional abuse will not result in broken bones and bruises, but it is still incredibly harmful and results in severe mental anguish through the use of humiliation, threats, and other more insidious means.

The fact that you or your loved one may have experienced these issues in a nursing home or assisted living facility does not necessarily mean that abuse or neglect has occurred. However, if there is not a reasonable explanation for the development of an injury, you may want to start asking questions. You should know that Medicare.gov has identified as “never events,” including the development of a Stage IV pressure sore in a care facility.

Examples of elder abuse and neglect include the following:

• Pressure sores (Bed sores or pressure ulcers)
• Falls
• Fractures
• Dehydration/Malnourishment
• Physical Assault
• Verbal Assault
• Doctor Negligence
• Aspiration Pneumonia
• Wrongful Death
• Understaffing/Unqualified Care Providers
• Unusual weight loss or weight gain
• A drastic change in mood or behavior, withdrawal from usual activities or abnormal depression or hesitant attitude
• Frequent arguments between caregivers and residents or tense interactions
• Unexplained or worsening of chronic condition.
• Lack of proper clothing

You should also be aware of conflicting stories about how injuries were sustained and long delays between when an injury occurred and when it was treated.

Additionally, some behavioral signs that might indicate your elderly loved one is being neglected include nightmares, self-destructive behavior, regressive behavior, signs of emotional distress, confusion or disorientation, and appearing emotionally withdrawn.

Confronting Sexual Abuse in Elderly Populations

It might seem unconscionable for anyone to engage in this kind of behavior, but due to their vulnerability, our elderly loved ones are often subject to sexual abuse, which includes:

• Unwanted touching

• Sexual assault

• Coerced nudity,
• Intercourse
• Taking pictures without consent.

Some of the most common signs of sexual abuse include unexplained STDs, bruises on the genitals or breasts, underwear that is ripped or bloody, and unexplained genital infections. Female residents are more likely to be victims of sexual abuse than their male counterparts. Sadly, only approximately 30 percent of sexual abuse cases are reported.

Preventing Financial Exploitation of the Elderly

More and more residents are being financially exploited by caregivers who steal money and credit cards or forge checks from their accounts. Some staff members force patients to change their will or sign over their property rights. However, financial exploitation can also be caused by family members.

Be on the lookout for any strange or unexplained financial transactions in your loved one’s name.