INDICATORS OF ELDER ABUSE
Physical Indicators
- Injuries that have not been properly cared for
- Sunken eyes or cheeks
- Injuries incompatible with history
- Cuts, lacerations or puncture wounds
- Evidence of inadequate care, such as improperly cared for bedsores
- Bruises, welts, discoloration, especially bilateral or multiple in various stages of healing
- Dehydration, malnourishment, or weight loss
- Broken Bones without medical explanation
- Pallor or poor skin hygiene
- Eye problems, retinal detachment
- Pulled out hair
- Soiled clothing or bed: left in own waste
Financial Indicators
- Unpaid bills when income is adequate
- Caregiver overly concerned with person's money
- Food, clothing & care needs not being met
- Overcharged for rent or services
- Personal loans not repaid
- Complaints of thefts of property or money
- Missing checks, jewelry or other valuables
- Power of attorney signed by confused person
- Suspicious changes in property title
- Promises of lifelong care in exchange for assets
- ATM transactions by home-bound elder
- Utility shut-offs or threats of shut-offs
- Large telephone bills run up by caregiver
- Checks for food, etc, written over amount needed
- Large or unusual bank transactions
What is Abuse 
© 2010 Center for Prevention of Abuse