Signs and Symptoms of Abuse
On the previous post we have discussed the different types of abuse, on this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms of abuses inflicted in the older member of our society. Some of the signs and symptoms will not be recognize immediately because it may appear to be symptoms of dementia or signs of the elderly person’s frailty or the abuser may explain them to you that way.
We have to keep an eye to our elderly and pay close attention to them. There are many signs and symptoms that overlap with symptoms of mental deterioration. You shouldn’t jump to conclusion but that doesn’t mean you should dismiss them.
General signs of abuse
• Frequent arguments or tension between the caregiver and the elderly person
• Changes in personality or behavior in the elder
Physical Abuse
• Visible signs of injury such as bruises, welts, or scars, especially if they appear symmetrically on two side of the body
• Signs of being restrained, such as rope marks on wrists
• Medical needs not attended to
• Broken bones, sprains, or dislocations
• Unexplained breakage of eyeglasses or frames
• Caregiver’s refusal to allow you to see the elder alone
Emotional abuse
• Threatening, belittling, or controlling caregiver behavior that you witness
• Withdrawal from people
• Behavior pattern from the elder that mimics dementia, lick sucking thumb, rocking, or mumbling to oneself
• Unexplained depression
• Sudden stop in doing their usual activities
Neglect by caregivers or self-neglect
• Sudden and unexplained weight loss
• Signs of malnutrition and dehydration
• Untreated physical problems, such as bed sores
• Poor hygiene
• Unsafe and unsanitary living conditions (no heat or running water, faulty electrical wiring, soiled beddings and clothes)
• Intentional desertion of the elder at a public place
