Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation

Anya was wracked with guilt, a sickening feeling that tossed and turned her throughout the night. As the oldest of the children, she had been responsible for finding a caregiver for her mom. She went through a few caregiver services, did the interviews, and settled on a young woman she thought was the best fit. Anya had been proud of herself, until, nearly a year later, she discovered that the caregiver had been stealing from her mom the entire time, in both large and small amounts. Her mom, suffering from physical ailments as well as the early stages of dementia, had not noticed the theft. By the time it was caught, Anya’s mother was in terrible financial shape. The children all made enough so that she didn’t suffer, but Anya was sickened by the memory. What would have happened if they couldn’t help? What happens to other people?

If you’re at all familiar with the abuse that can be suffered by older adults, you’re probably aware of some of the more common forms. For example, physical abuse has signs that can be seen easily (such as burns, scars, and bruises). Financial abuse is aptly demonstrated by funds disappearing from bank accounts, missing valuables, or intercepted checks.[1. “Signs of Financial Abuse of Elderly,” https://www.ag.nd.gov/CPAT/PDFFiles/abuse.PDF] Even neglect has the unmistakable signs of a disheveled personal appearance, lack of hygiene, and untidy home.

If you’re the caregiver of an older adult, you probably feel good about keeping them in their homes throughout their golden years. After all, most people prefer to stay in places they’ve lived in for decades rather than be transferred to a facility. However, just because a person resides where they wish doesn’t mean they’re completely free from dangerous situations. If your loved one needs help accomplishing everyday tasks, they may face a threat you never considered: elder neglect.