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How to Recognize Signs of Elder Abuse
The following list indicates signs for recognizing abuse. It is not intended
to be exhaustive.
Physical Abuse Indicators:
- Bruises and discoloration on inner arm/thigh, thumb/finger prints,
choke marks, presence of old and new bruises in the same place, different
colored bruises, and suspicious shapes caused by coins, cords or belts
used as restraints.
- Scratches, cuts, pinch marks, cigarette burns, rope burns, and fractures.
- Physical injury on head, scalp or face, e.g. black eye.
- Bruises around breast or genital areas, unexplained vaginal or anal
bleeding, or torn, stained and bloody under clothing.
- Physical restraint use not ordered by a doctor and used for the convenience
of care provider, e.g., persons tied in bed, strapped into wheelchairs
while slumping over or sitting out of alignment, etc.
- Drowsiness, dry and cracked lips, drooling, vacant stare from over-
medication.
Neglect Indicators:
- Poor hygiene, e.g., unkempt appearance, stained or torn clothes.
- Dirty or uncut finger or toe nails.
- Inadequate dental hygiene.
- Signs of feces on resident or in bathroom and smell of urine.
- Person lying in urine or feces.
- Unexplained weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration.
- Persons left unattended on toilet.
- Bruising or fractures from rough handling or frequent falls due to
lack of attention.
- Bedsores on buttocks, heels, elbows, shoulder blades, etc.
- Staffing problems in care facilities lead to neglect, e.g., limited
number of staff on nights and weekends, staff inadequately trained or
experienced for assignment, and high staff turnover.
Behavioral Abuse Indicators:
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Fear
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Helplessness/Resignation
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Implausible Stories
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Anger
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Withdrawal
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Hesitation to Talk Openly
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Confusion or Disorientation
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Denial
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Agitation
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Non-Responsiveness
Relational Abuse Indicators:
- The elder is not given the opportunity to speak for him/herself.
- Family or care providers restrict activity, outside contacts.
- Family or care providers do not allow the elder to be alone with anyone.
- Family and/or care providers provide conflicting reports on condition
of the elder.
- There are suspicions of substance abuse by caregiver.
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