If the abuse is happening now, call 911.
If you suspect elder or adult abuse, call Adult Protective Services in your area.
Warning Signs of Financial Exploitation
- Significant withdrawals from the vulnerable adult’s accounts;
- Sudden changes in their financial circumstances;
- Valuable items or cash missing from their home;
- Increase in junk mail soliciting purchases or payments for sweepstakes money;
- Neglect of the victim, such as no food in the home; and maintenance and repairs of the home are ignored.
Warning Signs of Neglect
- Unusual weight loss;
- Malnutrition;
- Dehydration;
- Untreated physical problems;
- Unsafe and unsanitary living conditions such as dirt, vermin, soiled clothes and bedding;
- Inappropriate clothing for the weather;
- Desertion or abandonment of the older person in a public place.
Warning Signs of Emotional Abuse
- Isolation of the older person or refusing to allow visits alone with the senior;
- Observed threatening or belittling of the older person by the caregiver.
- Warning Signs of Physical Abuse
- Bruising, especially in the torso or head; frequent injuries from accidents;
- Broken eyeglasses or frames;
- Caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors alone with the older person.
