Elderly Abuse. What are the signs?

Elderly people in Guildford and Woking are easy victims for abusers. And abuse comes in many forms such as financial abuse, neglect, physical abuse and much more.

This article talks about the types of abuse elderly people can experience and helps us to spot the signs.

Recognising abuse in elderly people can be challenging, as it may not always be obvious. It’s essential to be vigilant and observant, looking for both physical and behavioural signs.

Here are some indicators of elder abuse:

Physical Signs of abuse:

Unexplained injuries, bruises, fractures, or burns. Signs of restraint, such as marks on wrists. Poor hygiene, inadequate grooming, or weight loss.

Behavioural Signs of abuse:

Unexplained changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal or sudden aggression. Fear or anxiety, especially in the presence of a specific person or caregiver. Depression, mood swings, or emotional distress.

Financial Signs:

Unusual or sudden changes in financial situations, including large withdrawals or transfers. Missing personal belongings or valuables. Unexplained changes to legal documents or wills.

Neglect:

Lack of proper hygiene, including dirty clothes or living conditions. Untreated health problems or medical conditions. Inadequate provision of food, water, or necessary medication.

Verbal or Emotional Abuse:

Verbal aggression, yelling, or humiliating language. Emotional withdrawal or attempts to manipulate through guilt or threats. Isolation from friends or family.

Sexual Abuse:

Unexplained genital infections or injuries. Signs of distress or fear during specific interactions. Sexual behaviour that is inappropriate or inconsistent with the person’s personality.

Isolation from family, friends, or the community. Lack of engagement in social activities they once enjoyed. Avoidance of eye contact or interaction.

Caregiver Behaviour: Aggressive behaviour, hostility, or a refusal to allow visitors. Conflicting accounts of injuries or changes in the elderly person’s condition. A caregiver who is overly controlling or restricts access to the elderly individual.

Medical Signs:

Delayed or inadequate medical care. Frequent hospitalisations for injuries or health issues. Discrepancies between the provided explanation and medical evidence.

If you suspect elder abuse, it’s crucial to take action. Report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as social services or the police. Remember, the safety and well-being of the elderly person should be the top priority.

What can I do if I feel unsafe or if I’m worried about someone else?

If you’re experiencing, or are at risk of, abuse or neglect – or you’re concerned that someone else is – get in touch with your local authority’s adult safeguarding team. To do this, you first need to find the contact details of your local council.

Find your local council on GOV.UK

What if I’m unsure of who to contact?

If you’re unsure of who to contact, you can:

call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 678 1602
call Hourglass on 0808 808 8141 or visit their website.

When you report abuse to the adult safeguarding team at your local council, they’ll listen to the information you give them and assess what action is required. They’ll ensure that you feel in control of what happens.

If you’re the person at risk, you can ask for someone who you trust to support you, or you can ask for an advocate. If you have difficulties, or don’t have the mental capacity to engage with the process, the local council may have a duty to appoint an advocate.

If you’re not the person at risk and you reported concerns about someone else, then the same applies for them – they can ask for someone they trust or an advocate, and in some situations, the local council may have a duty to appoint them an advocate.

If you’re at risk of further abuse, the adult safeguarding team will work with you to plan how you can stay safe. You must be fully involved at every stage of this process.

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