Respecting and Protecting our Elders
Young or old, the safety of your family members is likely one of your greatest concerns – especially for those who are the most defenseless. Like children, the elderly are also vulnerable mistreatment and abused due to their frailty – especially those who require nursing facilities or hospice care.
Unfortunately, elder abuse often goes undetected because mental or physical ailments might prevent a patient from telling a loved one what’s really going on. Even so, more than half a million reports of elder abuse are reported yearly. So to ensure the safety of your loved ones, keep an eye out for the warning signs.
Symptoms of physical abuse can include unexplained bruises, welts, scars, broken bones, failure to take medication regularly, broke eyeglasses, or refusal of caregiver to allow you to see your elder alone.
Emotional abuse signs can also include behavior that mimics dementia such as rocking, sucking, mumbling, and a general sense of fear.
If your loved one shows signs of unusual weight lose, dehydration, bed sores or is dirty and unbathed, they could be the victims of caregiver neglect.
Since your family’s safety is of great concern, ensure all elderly family members are properly taken care of – after all, it’s their turn.