How to Detect Neglect or Abuse by a Caregiver

With as many as 25% of American families requiring care for elderly and chronically ill loved ones, it is important to watch for signs of neglect or abuse by a caregiver. The great majority of family members and professional caregivers do a conscientious and praiseworthy job of tending to the needs of those in their care, but sometimes the job can be overwhelming, causing burnout, a callous attitude and resentment. The person receiving the care may not be able to communicate a problem due to limited ability to speak or fear of reprisal from the caregiver in your absense. Here is how to detect neglect or abuse by a caregiver and what to do about it.

Instructions

1. Watch for changes in personality or behavior in the person under care. Crying, whimpering or a refusal to talk or otherwise communicate, especially in someone who has previously been in reasonably good spirits and responsive, may indicate a change in the way a caregiver is treating her charge. A loved one's unkempt or disheveled appearance and poor personal hygiene should tip you off that the caregiver may be neglecting her duties.

2. Check the loved one's physical condition regularly. Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, abrasions, scratches or burns can be signs of rough handling, coercive treatment or outright abuse. Pressure sores can indicate neglect and failure to get the loved one into different and more comfortable positions in bed or while sitting in a chair for long periods.

3. Monitor the loved one's weight. Unexplained weight loss could mean the caregiver is withholding food or simply ignoring the person's feeding schedule. It could also mean the caregiver is not paying attention to the person's special dietary needs.

4. Look for signs of confusion, disorientation or excessive sleeping. These symptoms may indicate the person isn't getting the right medications or appropriate dosage. In the case of excessive sleeping, make sure the loved one isn't being overdosed to keep her quiet and sedated just for the caregiver's benefit.

5. Observe the love one's living space. Families often try to keep an elderly family member in his own home as long as possible. Be aware of the living conditions. A dirty or disorganized living space may indicate neglect, but it could also be a sign that the caregiver is overwhelmed and has more responsibilities than she can handle.

Tips & Warnings

• Act as soon as you suspect neglect or abuse. Waiting increases the chances of more serious injury or abuse.

• Start by arranging to have someone else on-site when the caregiver is present.

• If your loved one can communicate, talk to her about his care when the caregiver is not present.

• Meet with your loved one's doctor to discuss physical changes and medications. Be sure the doctor sees the care recipient often enough to track any changes you observe.

• Contact social services if you cannot make the changes in caregivers or living situations yourself. Call for an investigation, if necessary.