ELDER ABUSE – HORRORS
We, as professionals in the field of eldercare, are always surprised when we hear of the trials and tribulations that older persons many times face on their own. It doesn’t seem real. It doesn’t feel real. It is very hard to understand how family, extended family, friends, neighbors and obviously strangers can hurt a vulnerable person. It happens quite often.
Describing what elder abuse looks like can help in protecting our senior population. We all have that responsibility to be aware and report the alleged abuse.
Some examples are given below. You may recognize them in a family member, friend or even a stranger.
- Unusual bruising especially on hands, arms, and legs.
- Observable weight loss over a period of time.
- Broken limbs. The senior may not be able to clearly explain what has happened.
- Unexplained falls occurring frequently.
- Fearfulness expressed in facial expressions.
- Poor hygiene and tattered clothing.
- Staying in the home without being seen for a while. This may indicate no one helping etc.
We all need to be more involved in our neighborhood. If you note the lights are never on, the sidewalks are never cleaned of snow, a definite change in lifestyle behaviors, wandering at night, appearing confused, or any other changes call the Police. They will respond to your concern. If you know any family member please call them. REMEMBER WE ALL NEED TO KEEP EACH OTHER SAFE.
Ivory House Health Services are Geriatric Care Managers and Certified Nursing Assistants working together to allow seniors to live more safely in the comfort of their own homes. If not possible to remain at home, our staff is knowledgeable about the many options for varied assisted living facilities that are available in the Baltimore area. For more information about our Care for the Elderly and In Home Care in Maryland you can contact Ivory House Health Services or call 1-800-704-3536.
