June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day set for June 15.
The National Council on Aging (http://ncoa.org) estimates that 1 in 10 Americans aged 60 or older have experienced some form of elder abuse, but only 1 in 14 cases are reported to authorities. That is outrageous, and it is our duty as a home care company to be vigilant with our clients and other seniors in our community.
Abuse takes many forms:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Financial
- Sexual
- Neglect
- Abandonment
Signs of abuse can include:
- Unexplained injuries or bruises
- Signs of restraint, like rope marks on wrists
- Withdrawal from usual activities
- Unexplained changes in behavior or mood
- Unexplained withdrawals or transfers of assets
- Poor hygiene or malnutrition
At Assisting Hands, our caregivers are trained to spot, document, and report signs of abuse. Our caregivers have reported abuse of our clients and other community members many times during the almost three years we have been operating in Broomfield and all throughout the North Metro area. I want to recognize the Arvada Police Department (https://www.arvadaco.gov/806/Public-Safety-Police) in particular for their solid follow-up work on multiple occasions.
If a loved one is exhibiting any of the unusual signs above, please reach out! There are so many resources available to seniors and their families. Elder abuse is unacceptable in any context. Please speak up and take action!
