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
• Burns such as cigarettes, acids or ropes
• Locked in room; tied to furniture or toilet

Financial Indicators

• Unpaid bills when income in 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 or attorney signed by confused person
• Suspicious changes in title to property
• 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