How to Protect Yourself From Elder Abuse

Abuse of elders has become an issue of increasing concern over the years as unscrupulous nursing homes, hospice care services, and other assisted-living facilities have emerged. This form of abuse can occur physically, financially, emotionally, and sexually. Law enforcement agencies and legal professionals are available to help victims of such abuse. However, you can follow these few simple steps to protect yourself from elder abuse before it happens.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Protect Yourself From Elder Abuse

1. Maintain contact with relatives, neighbors, and friends. This keeps people updated on your welfare so you can receive help if something unusual occurs. Isolating yourself from others can leave you helpless if trouble arises.

2. Set up a buddy system with other trusted elders.

3. Ask relatives and friends to visit you regularly.

4. Tell someone if you're not happy with the way you're being treated.

5. Keep your mail-handling personal. Don't let anyone else open it.

6. Review documents before signing them or have someone you trust to review them for you.

7. Set up direct deposit for your Social Security check and pension instead of having them sent by mail.

Protect Others From Elder Abuse

8. Call and visit your loved one regularly.

9. Look out for signs of anything suspicious.

10. Be open with your loved one and assure them you are trustworthy. Let them know you're there to help them.

11. Review your loved one's financial transactions as permitted. Look for unauthorized credit card or bank transactions.

12. Report instances of abuse to the local authorities and get legal help if necessary.

Who Can Help Sponsored