4 Common Signs of Senior Caretaker Abuse (and What to Do About It)

Senior caretaker abuse is more common than you might think. Approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. If you suspect that your senior loved one is being abused by their caretaker, it's vital to take action as soon as possible to help them get into a safe environment. Read on for common signs of senior caretaker abuse and what to do about it. 

Signs of Senior Caretaker Abuse

Elder abuse can come in many forms. As a result, spotting it isn't always easy. But there are several signs that your senior loved one is being abused by a caretaker that you may notice. Here are four signs to pay attention to:

1. Injuries

It's not uncommon for seniors to have accidents that lead to injury. But if they are experiencing consistent injuries or injuries that are questionable, this could be a sign of senior caretaker abuse. Some common injuries to watch out for are bruises, cuts, and broken bones.

2. Malnourishment

Seniors need a healthy, balanced diet to promote a good quality of life. Pay attention to whether your senior loved one looks malnourished or is experiencing unexpected weight loss. This could be a sign that they are not receiving meals regularly from their caretaker.

3. Poor Hygiene

Another common sign of senior caretaker abuse is poor hygiene. Signs of poor hygiene include body odor, long fingernails, and dirty clothing. If your loved one is presenting poor hygiene, this could mean they are being neglected by their caretaker.

4. Unexplained Financial Transactions

Unfortunately, seniors are a target for financial scams. More specifically, there are situations where financial abuse or exploitation occurs between seniors and their caretakers. In these situations, a caretaker may take advantage of an elder by improperly using funds. If you notice that your senior loved one has unusual financial transactions or is experiencing a loss of money, this could be due to caretaker abuse.

What to Do When Senior Caretaker Abuse Is Evident

Elder abuse won't stop without intervention. Many older adults are afraid to report mistreatment or feel ashamed about the situation. If you believe that your senior loved one is being abused, the first thing you should do is talk to them when you're alone. Let them know that you are worried about them and that you are willing to help get them the assistance they need.

If you find that they are being abused, the next step is to report it. There are many social service agencies at the local, state, and national levels that can provide seniors with the help they need. For more guidance on how to report abuse, visit the Administration for Community Living. They offer a national center for elder abuse and can guide you through the process and educate you on state laws regarding abuse and neglect.

Senior Helpers Greater OKC: A Leader in In-home Care for Older Adults

Senior Helpers Greater OKC offers in-home care throughout the Greater Oklahoma City metro area. We believe that seniors don't have to leave home to feel better. Whether your senior loved one needs in-home care to meet companionship and personal needs or specialized care for chronic diseases, our skilled team is here to help. If you're located in Oklahoma City, Edmond, or Norman, contact us to see how we can help provide your senior loved one with the care they need.