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

When you hire someone to take care of your senior loved one, you expect the caregiver to treat them with kindness, respect, and the utmost concern. However, according to the National Council on Aging, up to five million seniors experience abuse each year. Here are some signs of elderly abuse to look out for when you suspect your caregiver of committing them:

1. Signs of Physical Abuse

Physical abuse usually leaves signs that can be visible when you visit your senior loved one. However, some of these signs can be hidden by clothing. While seniors tend to get cold more easily, your senior wearing long sleeves and pants in the summer might be a sign of physical abuse. You can ask your senior loved one when you have a moment alone with them or check them for bruising if they can't communicate well.  

2. Signs of Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is harder to identify because the scars aren't something you can see. However, you might notice changes in your senior loved one's behavior. They might cringe at loud sounds or shrink back if you laugh loudly. Your senior parent might become depressed or say negative things about themselves. If you begin to see behavioral changes like this, they might be signs of elderly abuse. It is important to address them with your senior loved one and ask about their relationship with their caregiver.

3. Signs of Financial Abuse 

Is your senior loved one suddenly worried about money, or has the power to their home been cut off? Financial abuse does happen, but the signs can be subtle. You might find that your senior loved one's checkbook is missing, or they might talk about going to the bank with their caregiver. If it's possible, create online access to your senior loved one's financial accounts to check for payments you don't recognize. 

4. Signs of Neglect

Signs of neglect can be harder to spot, especially if you visit your senior loved one through prearranged visits. Despite this, you might notice that your senior's home is in disarray or that their clothing is wrinkled or disheveled. If you suspect neglect, try stopping by unannounced on a few occasions to see what your senior and their home usually look like. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Senior Caretaker Abuse

You don't want to take chances with your senior loved one. If you suspect a caregiver of committing elderly abuse, you should immediately replace the caregiver. This might include finding another service. When the abuse is physical or financial, you should file a police report after you get the caregiver away from your loved one. It's also a good idea to let the caretaker service you were using know what you suspect so they can take steps to uncover the truth. 

Senior Helpers Erie Offers Immediate Support

If your senior loved one has experienced abuse at the hands of a caretaker in Erie or Warren, you need to remove the caregiver and find someone you can trust. Senior Helpers Erie carefully screens our team, and we treat senior loved ones like they're a member of our family. Contact us today to learn more about our services.