Elder abuse affects seniors here in San Mateo County, and it's often overlooked. It includes various forms of mistreatment that harm older adults, sometimes causing serious injury or psychological damage. As caretakers and family members, we must be aware of this issue so that we can take measures to protect our loved ones.
Defining Elder Abuse
Approximately one in 10 adults aged 60 or older has experienced some form of elder abuse, according to pre-pandemic studies. Elder abuse involves any action or lack of action that harms the health or well-being of an older adult.
- Physical abuse includes hitting, pushing, or otherwise causing bodily harm to a senior. Emotional or psychological abuse occurs when someone inflicts mental pain or distress through verbal or non-verbal acts like yelling or isolating the elder from friends and family.
- Financial exploitation involves illegal or improper use of a senior's funds or assets for someone else's benefit, which can devastate an older adult's financial security and independence.
- Neglect and abandonment happen when caregivers fail to provide necessary care, including food, water, shelter, or medical treatment. This form of abuse can be hazardous as it may lead to serious health complications or even death.
- Sexual abuse, which involves any non-consensual sexual contact, is another severe form of elder abuse that must be recognized and reported immediately.
Identifying Warning Signs
Recognizing the warning signs of elder abuse is the first step in preventing it. Unexplained injuries, bruises, or marks resembling restraints may indicate physical abuse, while sudden withdrawal, depression, or fearfulness around certain individuals can suggest emotional mistreatment. In some cases, what appear to be signs of loneliness—such as social withdrawal or loss of interest—may actually mask deeper emotional abuse or neglect.
Financial exploitation may be evident through unusual bank activity, missing valuables, or unpaid bills despite having sufficient income. Neglect often appears as poor hygiene, malnutrition, or unsafe living conditions. Noticing these warning signs early can help ensure timely protection and care for vulnerable seniors.
How to Report Suspected Abuse
If you suspect elder abuse, acting quickly can prevent further harm to the senior, as abuse often continues and escalates if unchecked. The sooner you take action, the better your chances are of protecting the vulnerable adult from further harm and suffering. When you suspect abuse, gather evidence such as photographs or written records of incidents. Keep detailed notes about what you've observed, including dates, times, and specific details.
Contact local authorities or adult protective services immediately to report the situation. These professionals are trained to handle such situations and can provide the support needed to protect the senior. Don't wait or assume someone else will handle it. By maintaining vigilance, giving support, and speaking up when we spot potential elder abuse, we create a safer environment for them.
How Senior Helpers Supports Safe and Dignified Aging
Recognizing and reporting elder abuse ensures our seniors' safety and dignity. We all have a role to play in combating this serious issue. Senior Helpers offers compassionate Companion Care and Personal Care services that help protect seniors from neglect, isolation, and other forms of abuse by ensuring regular check-ins, attentive support, and trusted companionship. If your senior loved one needs quality, professional care and companionship, contact us at Senior Helpers San Mateo. We proudly serve seniors in the San Mateo, Redwood City, Burlingame, and Millbrae areas.