We may think we’re not responsible, but anytime each of us turn a blind eye to the signs that an older adult is being abused or neglected, we are participating in their victimization. Whether we pass a senior in a Florida grocery store who shows signs of bruises and don’t say a word, or we keep our mouths shut while we see an individual verbally battering an older adult in the park; we are sharing in the responsibility of elder abuse. Next time you suspect a senior is being abused, don’t hold your tongue; any of the signs listed below can indicate that a senior is a victim of abuse or neglect, and now’s the time to do something about it.

• The senior is showing physical signs of injury, including bruising, sprains and cuts

• There are bedsores on the senior’s body, which may show signs of neglect

• The senior seems to be tense and argumentative around his or her caregiver

• The senior has withdrawn from many social activities that they once enjoyed

• The senior’s general attitude has changed

• The senior refuses to seek treatment for any issues with drugs, alcohol or depression

• The senior tries to avoid the topic of his/her care

• The senior appears to be losing excessive amounts of weight

• The senior’s caregiver seems “too good to be true”, if you get the impression, that may very well be the case. A good caregiver should be open and honest about their dealings with a senior.

Sources:

1. Planning for Eldercare

Home Care Florida provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Palm Coast. Call us today at 904-363-6699 or 904-794-9450.