Health Tip: Look for Signs of Elder Abuse

Many seniors are frail and unable to fully care for themselves. They are particularly vulnerable to intentional abuse or neglect.

Here are some warning signs of elder abuse:

• Any sign of physical harm, including bruises, fractures, burns or marks on the skin.
• Sudden withdrawal, depression and reduced alertness, or other changes in behavior or personality.
• Unexpected changes in financial status, which could indicate that the elderly person is being exploited.
• Unexplained weight loss, bedsores or lack of personal hygiene.
• Signs of being threatened or belittled.
• Frequent arguing between caregiver and the elderly person, and signs of strain in the relationship

 

 

June 15th Is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

The International Network Prevention of Elder Abuse will sponsor the 6th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on Wednesday, June 15, 2011. The key objective of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is to raise awareness of elder abuse (which encompasses neglect and mal- or mistreatment) throughout the world.   If you visit the website, you can download the organizations toolkit,  and a fact sheet  from the World Health Organization.   If you suspect someone you know is the victim of elder abuse, call my office for a free consultation, or contact the New Jersey Adult Protective Services department for the county in which the person is living.