June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day—and with good reason. Some estimates suggest that as many as five million elders suffer abuse each year, many of them at the hands of supposed caregivers: friends, family members, and people who have been hired to provide care. This may represent as many as 1 in 6 seniors—and a high percentage of them live in nursing homes and assisted living communities where they should be able to count on support from their caregivers. This June 15, take a moment to consider the potential for elder abuse and how to avoid it.
Signs of Abuse
Sometimes, you may sense that something is just a little off about a senior loved one in your life. Other times, you may chalk those oddities up to a natural part of the aging process. If you see these signs of abuse, however, it’s a good indicator that something is wrong.
- The senior acts fearful around specific individuals. This is particularly true for seniors who have not previously shown signs of fear or who aren’t usually nervous around other individuals.
- The senior has unexplained injuries or injuries with questionable origins. A senior who lives in an assisted living facility or a nursing home should not show frequent signs of injury, including bruises at different stages of healing.
- The senior lacks what they need, including food, clothing, and other essentials. This could be a sign of neglect or financial abuse.
- The senior’s bank account has large withdrawals or their balance has decreased suddenly.They may show sudden signs of worry about finances when before, there wasn’t an issue.
- The senior withdraws. Many seniors undergoing abuse will withdraw and fail to talk to people they once trusted. They might find it difficult to communicate or feel ashamed of the abuse.
- The senior tells you they are being abused. Even if you suspect that a senior’s cognitive function is deteriorating or that they might choose to lie for another reason, always take allegations of abuse seriously and follow up.
Help Is Available
Elder abuse is a global social issue, so you need to seek help as soon as possible If you suspect that a loved one has been abused. Start the conversation, and check in with elderly loved ones on a regular basis. With these simple steps, you can prevent abuse and keep them safer.
Have you or a loved one been accused of abuse or attack? We can help. Our criminal lawyers in Toronto do what they can to build your case and protect your rights.
Contact Gambriani Law today.
