/ > 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, 2012 Version
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?
Neglect
- 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
Financial Abuse
- 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
Psychological Abuse
- 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
Physical Abuse
- Inadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts, sores or burns
Reporting Suspected Abuse and Neglect
- In case of emergency, call your local
police station or 911.
Help for Those Who Have Experienced Mistreatment
National
California