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“Red Flags of Elder Abuse” (pdf)

These warning signs have been outlined by Center of Excellence staff to help alert loved ones and acquaintances to possible signs of mistreatment.

Red Flags, 2011 Versions

Red Flags of Abuse

Does a senior or adult with a disability that you know display any warning signs of mistreatment?

Lack of basic hygiene
Lack of adequate food
Lack of medical aids (glasses, walker, teeth, hearing aid, medications)
Lack of clean appropriate clothing
Person with dementia left unsupervised
Bed bound person left without care
Home cluttered, filthy, in disrepair, or having fire & safety hazards
Home without adequate facilities (stove, refrigerator, heat, cooling, working plumbing, and electricity)
Untreated pressure “bed” sores

Lack of amenities victim could afford
Elder “voluntarily” giving inappropriate financial reimbursement for needed care and companionship
Caregiver has control of elder’s money but is failing to provide for elder’s needs
Caretaker “living off” elder
Elder has signed property transfers (Power of Attorney, new will, etc.) when unable to comprehend the transaction

Caregiver isolates elder (doesn’t let anyone into the home or speak to the elder)
Caregiver is verbally aggressive or demeaning, controlling, overly concerned about spending money, or uncaring

Anywhere in the U.S., call the ElderCare Locator for a referral by dialing 1-800-677-1116. You can also visit the NCEA State Directory http://www.ncea.aoa.gov/NCEAroot/Main_Site/Find_Help/State_Resources.aspx to find agencies in your area.

In California, ask your local Aging and Disability Information Referral Line by dialing 1-800-510-2020. You can also find reporting information by visiting the California Department of Social Services website at http://www.cdss.ca.gov/agedblinddisabled/PG1298.htm
Download the Report of Suspected Abuse or Neglect form from California Department of Social Services (PDF)

“How can I help a friend of family member who is being abused?” guidance from National Domestic Violence Hotline
”Help for Victims and Friends of Victims” resources from National Organization for Victim Assistance
“What Services Are Available?” a short guide by the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse

National

Office for Victims of Crime, Help for Crime Victims and http://www.crimevictims.gov/flash.html
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- 1-800-273-TALK (8255) [24/7 hotline]
- 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish) 1-800-799-4889 (TTY)
National Domestic Violence Hotline
- 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) [24/7 hotline in English y Espanol]
- 1-800-727-3224 (TTY)
National Consumers League Fraud Center has tips and articles to help you recognize fraud and an online form to file a complaint

California