Preventing Elder Abuse -
Physical and Mental Abuse

SIGNS of PHYSICAL ABUSE

Physical Abuse is what most of us think of when we hear the term "elder abuse". While many of the symptoms that indicate physical abuse may be occurring as the result of a disease or medications, the appearance of these signs should prompt further investigation.

• Bruises or grip marks around the arms or neck
• Rope marks or welts on the wrists and/or ankles
• Scratches, blisters, lacerations or pinch marks
• Burns caused by scalding water, cigarettes or ropes
• Any injury that is incompatible with explanations
• Any injuries that reflect an outline of an object, for example, a belt, cord or hand print;
• Repeated unexplained injuries
• Dismissive attitude or statements about injuries
• Refusal to go to same emergency department for repeated injuries

SIGNS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding
• Torn or bloody underwear
• Bruised breasts
• Venereal diseases or vaginal infections

SIGNS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

• Uncommunicative and unresponsive
• Unreasonably fearful or suspicious
• Confused or extremely forgetful
• Depressed
• Helpless or angry
• Hesitant to talk freely
• Lack of interest in social contact
• Chronic physical or psychiatric health problems
• Evasiveness

RESOURCE LINKS