Recognizing Abuse

The following is a list of the different types of abuse. Please see Indicators for a list of clues for the observer to recognize abuse.

PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL can include:

• Slapping, pinching or hitting
• Inappropriate use of physical restraint or medication
• Rape and sodomy
• Inappropriate touching
• False imprisonment or isolation

EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL can include:

• Verbally threatening, assaulting, or harassing
• Subjecting the person to any form of intimidating behavior
• Withholding emotional support
• Confinement
• Subjecting the elder to fear, isolation or emotional stress
• An overwhelmed caregiver who is unable to cope well with caregiving tasks

NEGLECT can include:

• Failure to assist with personal hygiene
• Failure to provide clothing or shelter
• Failure to provide medical care
• Abandonment
• Failure to provide proper nutrition
• Prolonged deprivation of food or water
• Failure to protect against safety hazards
• Self-neglect

FINANCIAL (FIDUCIARY) can include:

• Theft or embezzlement
• Extortion
• Misuse of funds or property
• Fraud and forgery
• Undue influence over an elder's assets