Senior care providers may want to provide a safe environment for your loved one on paper but unfortunately, there are individuals out there who will take advantage of them as well. Older adults with poor cognitive function, increased physical dependency, and economic and racial disparities are at the highest risk for abuse in healthcare facilities and at home. Let’s take a look at unsafe living conditions for the elderly and how to report them.
Types of Elder Abuse and Neglect
From physical abuse to exploitation, seniors are not immune to any harmful behaviors from care providers. Here is a closer look at some types of abuse and neglect elderly people can experience.
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Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect
It can be hard to figure out if a senior is experiencing abuse, especially if they have speaking difficulties. However, you can still look out for red flags. These include:
Bruises, burns, and other signs of physical trauma
Confusion
Depression
Social withdrawal
Finances changing or getting worse
Bedsores and poor hygiene
Weight loss
Sudden negative reaction to physical contact
Unexplained diseases or injury in private areas
Unwillingness to speak or self-doubt
Now that we know a little bit about these unsafe conditions, let’s take a look at how to report unsafe living conditions of the elderly.
Who Do You Call to Report Elder Neglect or Abuse?
If you know someone is in immediate danger, you should first and foremost call 9-1-1. If that’s not necessarily the case, then you can take advantage of other resources. Let’s take a look at where to report elderly neglect or abuse so you can keep your loved one safe.
Eldercare Locator: Open Monday-Friday from 9am-8pm EST, trained operators will direct you to a local agency that can help. Call 1-800-677-1116.
Adult Protective Services: Trained professionals will investigate abuse claims. You can either call the national hotline at 800-222-8000 for the local number or check out this state-by-state list.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-SAFE to report physical and emotional abuse.
Your local ombudsmen: Click here to find the number for your local ombudsmen so you can report abuse or neglect at a nursing home or senior living facility.