Elder Abuse Prevention

Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a day intended to call attention to the abuse of the elderly in our communities. On June 15, 2026, we should all take a few minutes to make ourselves more aware of the signs that our elder loved ones are being physically, mentally, psychologically, or economically abused.  Elder abuse comes in many forms. 

·  Physical Abuse: Inflicting bodily injury, pain, or impairment through force.

·  Emotional Abuse: Causing mental anguish through verbal threats, humiliation, or isolation.

·  Financial Exploitation: Illegally or improperly using an older adult's funds, property, or assets.

·  Neglect: Failing to provide essential care like food, medication, or shelter.

·  Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual contact or interaction of any kind.

·  Abandonment: Deserting an older adult by someone who has assumed custody or care.

We should all know the signs of the six major forms of elder abuse so that when elder abuse occurs we are able to spot it and make sure that our elders do not continue to suffer abuse or have their assets or income exploited. 

Physical Abuse

• Unexplained injuries like bruises, burns, or scars.

• Symmetrical bruises on both wrists or ankles.

• Broken eyeglasses or physical frames.

• Caregiver refusing to leave the elder alone with visitors.

Emotional Abuse

• Uncharacteristic withdrawal from normal activities.

• Frequent, unexplained crying or fearfulness.

• Extreme passivity or acting agitated and anxious.

• Caregiver openly insulting or threatening the elder.

Financial Exploitation

• Sudden, unexplained bank account withdrawals.

• Unfamiliar signatures on checks or legal documents.

• Abrupt changes in wills, power of attorney, or titles.

• Missing belongings, jewelry, or cash from the home.

Neglect

• Poor hygiene, unwashed clothes, or unkempt appearance.

• Hazardous or unsanitary living conditions.

• Untreated medical conditions, bedsores, or rapid weight loss.

• Lack of working utilities, heat, or cooling.

Sexual Abuse

• Unexplained bleeding, bruising, or trauma around private areas.

• Torn, stained, or bloody undergarments.

• Sudden onset of a sexually transmitted infection.

• Unexplained difficulty walking or sitting.

Abandonment

• Leaving an older adult alone in a public place.

• Deserting a dependent elder at a hospital or clinic.

• Leaving a frail elder home alone for extended periods.

• Total lack of communication from a primary caregiver.

If you suspect that an elder you know is the victim of any form of Elder Abuse, immediately call 911 to report the suspected abuse.  Then call the Shoup Law Firm to have Jerry formulate a strategy for assisting your elder loved one in resolving the issue and getting the protection that they need.