Recognizing Elder Abuse

In order to understand how to recognize elder abuse it is necessary to first understand exactly what elder abuse is. Any action taken on the part of a person that causes harm in some way to an elder is considered elder abuse. There are four main categories of elder abuse and descriptions of the category as well as warning signs that can aid in recognition are discussed below.

Physical Elder Abuse: This represents the largest section of the reported cases of elder abuse and is also probably the easiest one to recognize. Physical elder abuse occurs when a person either hits or pushes an elder and causes them physical pain or discomfort. Elders that have undergone physical elder abuse tend to either show behavioral traits that would signify that or have unexplained bruises and injuries along their body.

Psychological Elder Abuse: This type of elder abuse is probably the most difficult to recognize. Psychological elder abuse occurs when a person uses psychological tricks in order to make the elder think things that are not actually true. These techniques are usually very subtle, and it is very difficult to recognize most forms of psychological elder abuse. Look for sudden changes in outlook or wrongful recollection of memories that are not explained by medical conditions.

Emotional Elder Abuse: This is any sort of abuse that is intended to cause the elder emotional discomfort along the lines of displaying really intense negative emotions like crying and anger. Sudden mood swings and changes in a person’s demeanor might be a warning sign of elder abuse.

Sexual Elder Abuse: This is sexual harassment that is perpetrated against elderly persons. The same warning signs apply as the ones that apply to all other three types of elder abuse.

Legalities

If you suspect that elder abuse is occurring or if you are a victim yourself then it is important that you get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer will be able to help you ensure that the abuser is held accountable for his or her actions and that he or she is unable to abuse another elder in the same manner.