Elder Abuse - Prevention Is Everyone's Job
In a previous post entitled "Yes, Elder Abuse Happens...Even In Idaho," I relayed the story of Verda Nicks and her untimely and tragic death. Ms. Nicks' twin sons, age 55, are charged with felonies alleging they subjected Ms. Nicks to abuse and neglect.
The day after my post, the Idaho AARP issued a press release letting all of us know the signs of Elder Abuse. The AARP's list contains important information for you to be aware of. According to the AARP, the following are signs of elder abuse:
- Unexplained bruises or other injuries.
- Sudden change in behavior.
- Caregiver's refusal to allow visitors.
- Elder is extremely upset, withdrawn, unresponsive; other unusual behavior.
- Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated bed sores, weight loss.
- Unattended health problems or lack of necessary aids, such as eyeglasses or dentures.
- Unsanitary living conditions (lice, soiled bedding).
- Inadequate clothing; no heat or running water.
- Unexplained bank withdrawals, unauthorized use of a credit or ATM card, stolen or "misplaced" cards or checkbook.
- Checks written as a "loan" or "gift."
- Abrupt changes in a will or other documents.
These warning signs apply whether an elderly person is in the community, an assisted living facility or a nursing home.
If you observe any of these warning signs, or if your "gut" tells you an elderly family member, friend or neighbor is being abused, you should call Adult Protective Services at (877) 471-2777 and the local police; in an emergency, call 911. If you observe the signs in an assisted living facility or nursing home, report your concerns immediately to the facility's management and call the Idaho Ombusdman at (208) 334-3833.
Of course, you will not see any of these warning signs if you do not take the time to check in on an elderly family member, friend or neighbor. I know we are all busy but, honestly, are we so busy that we do not have a few moments to pick up the phone and place a call or walk to an elderly neighbor's house to check on them? We have all heard the expression "it takes a village to raise a child." In fact, it also takes a village to ensure our elderly citizens are properly cared for and not subject to abuse and neglect. Take the time and make the effort, you could be saving someone's life.
