4 Types Of Elder Abuse

Abuse comes in many forms, but any form of abuse can cause major harm. When that abuse involves an elderly person, however, the damage can become severe and may even lead to wrongful death. If you would like to know more, check out these four common types of elder abuse.

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is never okay, but when it involves a senior, it can be devastating and life-threatening. This is especially problematic if the elder is unable to voice their concerns or fears. You can ask your loved one about physical abuse, but they may lie out of fear, so it's best to look for the signs.

Common signs of physical abuse for seniors include unexplained injuries (soft and hard injuries), malnourishment, poor hygiene, withdrawal, and much more. If you suspect someone is abusing your loved one, seek help immediately, and get your loved one out of the dangerous situation.

2. Neglect

Neglect goes hand and hand with physical abuse, except while physical abuse is usually done on purpose, neglect is sometimes done on accident. Nursing homes experience a lot of neglect because they have so many residents and so few caregivers. However, that doesn't mean it's okay for your loved one to go ignored.

Signs of neglect may include some of the same symptoms as physical abuse, such as malnutrition, but if your loved one is mostly bed-ridden, they may also have pressure marks and bedsores from neglect. Patients who experience neglect may not get to eat, bathe, brush their teeth, or get out of bed at all.

3. Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse may be accompanied by physical abuse, but it often comes alone, making it harder to detect. You can't see depression like you can see a bruise. However, anyone who struggles with emotional abuse will have several tell-tale signs.

They may be afraid to talk and even isolate themselves from other residents and their family. Many also suffer from mood disorders, such as anger, anxiety, and depression. Emotional abuse may not seem as devastating as physical abuse, but it can ruin your loved one's mental health, which can drastically impact a senior's overall health.

4. Financial Abuse

Financial abuse occurs when someone takes advantage of your loved one's finances. They may do this by literally stealing money/items from the home or bank account. However, they may also do it by manipulating or lying to your loved one.

This can be especially problematic if your loved one suffers from dementia or a similar condition because the caregiver could lie about being a family member. Therefore, even if your loved one willingly gave the money or item, it may be abuse.

If you believe your loved one is the victim of any type of abuse, it's time to step in. Whether it's a family member stealing from them or a caregiver abusing them, something must be done. For more information, contact an elder abuse lawyer in your area today.

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