As our population ages, protecting older adults becomes a shared responsibility. Elder abuse is a serious and often hidden issue that affects millions of seniors each year. It can happen in private homes, care facilities, or community settings. And it’s frequently committed by someone the older adult knows and trusts.

For these reasons, recognizing and reporting elder abuse are essential steps in safeguarding the dignity, safety, and well-being of our precious older adults.

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act that causes harm or distress to an older adult, typically someone aged 60 or older. Abuse can take many forms, including the following.

• Physical abuse – Hitting, pushing, improper restraint, or withholding basic needs
• Emotional or psychological abuse – Verbal threats, humiliation, intimidation, or isolation
• Financial exploitation – Misuse of money, property, or assets, scams, coercion
• Neglect – Failure to provide food, shelter, medical care, or hygiene
• Sexual abuse – Any non-consensual sexual contact
• Abandonment – Desertion by a caregiver or responsible party

Did you know that 1 in 10 adults over the age of 60 have experienced some form of abuse? But what’s even more alarming is that this number may be severely underestimated due to only 1 in 24 cases are reported to authorities. So, because senior abuse is often underreported, recognizing the signs and reporting elder abuse is critical.

Recognizing and Reporting Elder Abuse

Recognizing and reporting elder abuse starts with awareness. While any one sign below may not confirm abuse, patterns or combinations are red flags and should raise concern.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Unexplained bruises, fractures, or repeated injuries
• Sudden changes in behavior, mood, or withdrawal from activities
• Fearfulness around certain individuals or caregivers
• Poor hygiene, weight loss, dehydration, or untreated medical issues
• Missing money or valuables, unusual banking activity, or sudden changes to legal documents
• A caregiver who appears controlling, dismissive, or reluctant to leave the older adult alone

How to Report Elder Abuse

If you suspect an older adult is being abused, trust your instincts and take action. Reporting can save lives.

• In immediate danger – Call 911
• Adult Protective Services (APS) – Each state has an APS agency that investigates reports of elder abuse
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman – For abuse occurring in nursing homes or assisted living facilities
• National Elder Abuse Hotline (U.S.) – 1-800-677-1116

In general, you do not need proof to make a report, reasonable suspicion is enough. Plus, reports can often be made confidentially or anonymously.

How Seaside Senior Services Can Help

The “golden years” should be a time in which individuals can enjoy life and age in place with dignity. No one should be fearful for their safety because of abusive situations. Recognizing and reporting elder abuse is one of the most powerful ways we can stand up for those who may not be able to stand up for themselves.

Seaside Senior Services is committed to being an advocate for older adults who are susceptible to abuse. We provide compassionate in-home care for seniors, Veterans, and families. Our services and care plans are customizable, so you receive just the right amount of care and can be adjusted as needs change.

To learn more about our services, contact us to schedule your FREE in-home care assessment.

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