6 Ways You Can Spot Elder Abuse from Afar

One out of every 10 seniors experiences some form of elder abuse. If you don’t live near your senior loved one, you may wonder if he or she is being cared for properly. Looking out for signs of elder abuse from a distance can help you get your loved one the assistance he or she needs. 

1. Talk with Your Loved One Regularly

Being abused may make your loved one frightened, moody, or angry. Talk with your parent regularly on the phone, and communicate frequently by text and email. Make note of any personality or mood changes. If your loved one’s personality has changed significantly, it could be due to abuse or a medical condition that needs to be addressed. 

2. Make Arrangements with a Neighbor or Friend

Reach out to your loved one’s neighbors, people who attend his or her church, and family members who live nearby. Ask them to stop in to visit your loved one unannounced and report back to you. They should look for signs of weight loss, visible bruises, or an unkempt appearance, all of which could indicate your parent isn’t being cared for properly. Also, ask these individuals to carefully look around the home. It should be neat and well stocked with food and care supplies. 

3. Plan a Visit

It might be difficult to arrange, but try to visit your loved one as often as possible. Elder abuse can be subtle and may be well hidden by the abuser. Seeing and visiting with your loved one in person can ensure he or she is receiving the best care possible. 

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted senior home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help.

4. Hire a Caregiver

Caregivers work with seniors and their family members to boost quality of life and help seniors maintain their independence for as long as possible. They’re trained in spotting elder abuse and can regularly monitor your loved one at home and report any concerns to you. 

For many seniors in Las Vegas, NV, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we extensively screen all of our caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.

5. Keep Tabs on Your Loved One’s Finances

Financial elder abuse is becoming a growing concern. Family members or friends might take advantage of your loved one’s finances and fraudulently steal his or her money or possessions. Regularly check your loved one’s bank accounts, investments, and credit cards to look for major purchases or cash withdrawals. 

6. Communicate with Healthcare Providers

Your loved one most likely visits several healthcare providers who are able to look for changes in health and appearance. Make sure you’re listed as a contact and able to get health information about your loved one. Talk with these healthcare providers regularly. They’ll be able to keep you informed about your loved one’s health and report any issues he or she may have. Any concerns should be reported immediately to the authorities. 

One of the best ways to prevent elder abuse is to hire a trustworthy, compassionate home caregiver. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide elder care, Las Vegas, NV, Assisting Hands Home Care has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering hourly and around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care Las Vegas to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 702-919-0231 to schedule a free in-home consultation.