Preventing Elder Abuse- Part 2

Stopping elder abuse is only possible after you learn to recognize the warning signs. Now that you have learned the signs, there are many actions that you can take to help prevent and end elder abuse. 

Here are some steps you can take now to prevent elder abuse:

hand-aged-care-sympathy.jpg

  1. Adapt to a “new normal” during these changing times – think about and check-in virtually with our loved ones 

  2. Continue this momentum and be proactive - educating community leaders and members on recognizing and preventing elder abuse 

  3. Ensure those currently aging into 60+ feel safe and supported

Here are some steps you can take to help prevent elder abuse:

  1. Take care of your health 

  2. Never provide personal information over the phone 

  3. Use direct deposit for all checks 

  4. Have your own phone 

  5. Review your will periodically 

  6. Seek professional help for drug, alcohol, and depression concerns and urging family members to get help for these problems 

  7. Attend support groups for spouses and learn about domestic violence services. Some of the agencies may also have virtual support groups. 

  8. Stay active in the community and stay connected with friends and family - this will decrease social isolation, which has been connected to elder abuse

  9. Start planning now!

Here are some steps you can take by being aware of others:

  1. Listen to older adults or others discussing the experience or suspicion of abuse 

  2. Don’t discount an individual’s claim simply because of cognitive impairment or forgetfulness 

  3. Watch for indicators of abuse and behavior changes

  4. ASK QUESTIONS: 

    • Do you feel safe? 

    • Is anyone hurting you or scaring you? 

    • Is anyone asking you to do things that you do not understand or that make you feel uncomfortable?

    • Has anyone taken things that belong to you without asking, or without your approval? 

    • Do you rely on anyone else for help? What kind of help? 

    • Does that person ever fail to help you? 

    • Do you regularly see friends and family? When was the last time you saw them? 

    • Are you being disrespected? 

    • Are you concerned about your finances? 

    • Are you afraid of anyone in your life? 

If possible, ask these questions privately in an area where you will not be overheard.

Preventing elder abuse and recognizing the warning signs will help end elder abuse. Now you may be asking, “What do I do now if I see the signs of elder abuse?” Next Monday, we will be back and tell you what to do if you suspect elder abuse. If you suspect it between now and next Monday, please call 888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366) to investigate allegations, or report online at reportadultabuse.dhs.tn.gov 

Resources:

Received from the Family Safety Center and the Coordinated Response to Elder Abuse in Memphis, TN.

Guest UserMeritanComment