By Regina Salmi, Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
When we address elder abuse, the focus is often on financial exploitation and avoiding financial scams. Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, sexual abuse and neglect as well as the financial component. Only 1 in 24 experiences of abuse are reported. It is important that we all know the signs of elder abuse to help protect the vulnerable adults in our lives. By being aware of the signs, we can all play a role in preventing abuse.
Acknowledging that abuse may be taking place is difficult for us to comprehend. For most people, when we notice something awry, we are more likely to try convincing ourselves that we are wrong than take action and report suspected abuse. According to Cassie Schrock, Kent County Elder Abuse Coalition Coordinator at Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, approximately “90% of abusers are either family members or trusted caregivers,” adding to the anxiety of reporting abuse. Yet, “elder abuse is one of the fastest growing crimes in Michigan” asserts Schrock, “90,000 seniors are victimized annually in Michigan.” It’s important we know the signs and report suspected abuse when we see it.
There are several signs of abuse and seeing just one doesn’t necessarily mean a person is being abused or neglected. We know that as we age, we’re susceptible to falls and may experience bruising from time to time. Our skin also thins as we age and so scrapes occur more easily. We can also experience emotional changes and depression as we age. Abuse is usually a collection of symptoms rather than just one thing.
Frequent and “unexplained injuries like bruises, scars, burns, welts, or broken bones” explains Schrock, should raise our suspicion.
There will also be emotional and behavioral changes in a person being physically abused such as rocking, sucking, or mumbling to themselves, seeming timid or fearful, withdrawing from typically enjoyed activities or changes in alertness. Weight loss, continuously poor hygiene, inadequate clothing and isolation by a caregiver can be associated with both abuse and neglect.
Schrock explains, “Some of these changes can be misunderstood as symptoms of dementia” which can cause one to be hesitant to report it as abuse.
If you suspect an older adult is being abused, report it. In Michigan, call Adult Protective Services at (855) 444-3911. This hotline is available 24-hours a day. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger do not hesitate to call 911 for help.
Cassie Schrock reminds us, “There is no liability if you make a report in good faith.”
For more information about reporting abuse, visit www.michigan.gov/mdhhs. To learn more about elder abuse and also stay up to date on the latest financial scams targeting seniors, visit www.protectkentseniors.org.
