Protecting the

Elderly from Physical Abuse, Neglect

Many people who are elderly or have disabilities live alone or are dependent on others for their care. Isolation is a factor that places vulnerable adults at risk for abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Make it your mission to remember the elderly and adults with disabilities in your community. Report abuse, neglect or exploitation by calling Adult Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400.

·         There are indicators of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. The presence of these signs does not always mean something is wrong, but they may be clues that a problem exists, and that a report needs to be made to law enforcement or APS. Physical signs may include an injury that has not been cared for properly, or that is inconsistent with explanation for its cause, pain from touching, or cuts and bruises.  Other signs might be dehydration or malnutrition without illness-related cause, inappropriate administration of medication, and lack of necessities such as food, water, or utilities.

Some behaviors may indicate maltreatment----such as fear, anxiety, contradictory statements, implausible stories or confusion.

Sometimes the caregiver may demonstrate signs that something is wrong, such as preventing the elder from speaking to or seeing visitors, or anger, indifference, or aggressive behavior toward the elder.

Signs of financial abuse may include the elder's personal belongings, papers, credit cards missing, numerous unpaid bills, or frequent checks made out to "cash.”

APS investigates allegations that occur in a person’s home or in state schools, hospitals and community MHMR centers. APS will investigate exploitation allegations involving nursing home residents if the alleged perpetrator is not an employee of the facility and is someone who has an ongoing relationship with the resident.

"You don't have to be certain that a situation is abusive or neglectful. We'll look into it and find out," states APS local supervisor Debbie Robinson.   “Good faith reports are exempt from personal liability and are kept confidential."

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