Statistics show Arizona Elder Abuse as a Growing Concern

The National Center on Elder Abuse states that elder abuse is a widespread problem; possibly affecting hundreds of thousands of elderly people across the country. Studies claim that at least 4% of older adults may be victims of abuse and neglect. It is estimated that 1.5 to 1.84 million Americans fall victim to elder abuse each year.

Why Arizona Elder Abuse Goes Unreported

Arizona elder abuse is not reported for many reasons. The complex matter and the realization that elder abuse is taking place may instill fear, social isolation, and self blame. It’s your role to stop Arizona elder abuse.

It’s Your Role to Stop Elder Abuse

Because Arizona elder abuse is such a complex matter, it cannot be resolved by the victim alone. The community must come together as a whole to stop the abuse. It often times takes families, friends, caregivers, community service providers to stop the Arizona Elder abuse.

Elder Abuse Warning Signs

If you suspect Arizona elder abuse of your loved one provided by a caregiver, be aware of the following signs to confirm your suspicion.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is when a victim shows signs of intentional infliction of physical pain and personal injury, the use of physical restraints that result in pain, injury or pain caused by unlawful imprisonment, or injury caused by neglect or acts of omission

Top Warning Signs

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, welts, sores, or abrasions in unusual places
• Bruises or cuts in the shape of foreign objects (i.e. belts, cords, rods)
• Bruises on upper arms with “finger print” shape. This is a sign of shaking.
• Cigarette burns on body
• Rope burns or cord abrasions
• Elder is Non Responsive
• Elder shows signs of uncared for injuries
• Elder winces with pain from touch
• Shows signs of malnutrition or dehydration without medical reason
• Elder lacks personal items in living environment

Neglect

Arizona elder abuse neglect is the act of being deprived of food, water, medication, shelter, climate control, or other services that are deemed necessary to maintain minimal physical or mental pain.

Top Warning Signs

• Lack of food and nutrition
• Infections due to improper care
• Bedsores
• Medicine improperly distributed
• Elder appears to be detached and helpless
• Dirty or soiled bedding/body
• Improper clothing for climate conditions

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is non-consensual sexual contact of any kind.

Top Warning Signs

• Elder is withdrawn, anxious, fearful, and shameful
• Torn or bloody clothing
• Difficulty walking with no medical reasoning
• Unexplained genital infections
• Unexplained STD

Financial Abuse or Exploitation

Another form of Arizona elder abuse is financial abuse. Financial abuse or financial exploitation is illegal or improper use to take advantage of venerable elders’ resources by means to profit.

Top Warning Signs

• Elder is accompanied to the bank by stranger who encourages withdrawing large amounts of cash
• Elder is accompanied by a family member to bank that is coercing elder to make transactions
• Elder withdrawing large amounts with several transactions from account in a short period of time
• Elder lacking explanation for what they are doing with their money.
• Elder confused about missing funds from personal banking accounts or credit card transactions
• Isolation
• Missing card statements/elder does not receive card statements
• Frequently purchasing gifts for caregiver
• Recently written will from person not capable of writing one
• Unpaid personal bills of elder
• Elder is unaware of their own monthly income
• Elder signed recent loan
• Caretakers name added to bank accounts

Psychological/Emotional Abuse

Psychological and emotional abuse can be described as distress, mental pain, or anguish through verbal or non verbal acts (e.g. ignoring, name calling, insulting, isolating, threatening, demeaning, and controlling.)

Top Warning Signs

• Fear of speaking in front of caregiver
• Clingy, trembling, or lacking of eye contact with guests
• Eating disorder present (i.e. avoiding food, binging)
• Depression
• Withdraw
• Low self-esteem
• Anger/Agitation
• Self medicating

What should I do if I suspect abuse and the elder refuses to acknowledge it?

Often times those that are being abused refuse to acknowledge the situation or report the incidences.

With such high numbers of abusers caring for the victim, the victim often refuses to acknowledge the abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Victims become too ashamed or frightened about what will happen if their situation is made aware. The best thing you can do in this case is to report your suspicion to the authorities.

Contact Solomon & Relihan if you have any further questions about your Arizona elder abuse suspicion. With a free no obligation initial consultation, you have nothing to lose. Save your loved one from further acts of abuse and neglect by calling or contacting Solomon & Relihan today.