Elder abuse includes abuse of both elders and dependent adults. Abuse can take the form of physical, emotional, financial, and neglect.
Physical Abuse includes:
- Physical assault
- Battery
- Sexual assault
- Unreasonable physical restraint
- Deprivation of food or water
- Inappropriate use of physical or chemical restraint
Emotional Abuse includes:
- Verbal assaults, threats, and intimidation
- Subjection to fear, isolation, or emotional stress
- Withholding emotional support
- Confinement
Financial Abuse includes:
- Any theft or embezzlement of money or any other property from an elder
- Stealing money
- Intercepting cash or checks
- Fraudulently convincing an elder to hand over money
- Telemarketing fraud
- Identity theft
- Predatory lending
- Home improvement scams
Neglect includes:
- Failure to aid with personal hygiene
- Failure to provide clothing and shelter
- Failure to provide medical care
- Failure to protect from health or safety hazards
- Failure to prevent malnutrition or dehydration
- Allowing self-neglect
Why are elders targets of abuse?
- Accessible – They're more likely to be home
- Finances – They may have already built up their retirement/savings accounts
- Dependent – They could need others to handle housework or finances
- Mindset – They are part of a generation more open to trusting others
- Less technological knowledge – It could be easier for them to accept "tech support"
- Memory issues – Scammers may try to start off their message with "As we discussed earlier..."
- Less likely to report – While there is nothing be embarrassed of, some may choose not to report
What are the warning signs?
Here are the common signs of abuse:
- Uncombed or matted hair
- Unkempt or dirty appearance
- Untreated medical conditions
- Malnourishment or dehydration
- Unexplained bruises or welts
- Burns caused by scalding water, cigarettes, or ropes
- Any injury that reflects the shape of an object such as a belt, cord, or hand
- Withdrawn attitude
- Abnormal confusion or forgetfulness
- Depression or anxiety
- Fear of talking openly
- Secretiveness
If you believe or suspect elder abuse, report it.
Reports should be made to the local Adult Protective Services Agency and local law enforcement.
Know that the reporting party is protected from both civil and criminal liability.Senior Advocates and Resources
Adult Protective Services (APS) - 101 Cirby Hills Dr., Roseville - (916) 787-8860 - Toll Free: (888) 886-5401
APS receives reports of abuse and neglect of elderly and dependent adults who are residing in their homes to provide investigation and evaluation of their need for protection and/or supportive services. APS provides and/or coordinates support services for emergency situations.
Seniors First - 12183 Locksley Ln, Ste 306, Auburn - (530) 492-5404
Seniors First exists to provide programs, services and long-term support to Placer County seniors so that they may maintain their independence as long as possible.
Senior Peer Counseling Program - (530) 883-8466
Senior Peer Counseling is a free, voluntary, peer support, in-home program for Placer County residents aged 55 years or better, who are dealing with age-related adjustment issues.
Stand Up Placer - 300 Derek Placer, Roseville - Phone: (916) 773-7273
Stand Up Placer is a non-profit community-based organization dedicated to empowering Placer County survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking to heal from the trauma and create new lives of strength and self-sufficiency.
Fraud Hotline Advocate - (916) 645-7226
The Fraud Hotline Advocate can help the elder determine whether or not the phone call, letter or email is a scam, and help anyone who falls victim to a scam navigate the reporting process.
Long Term Care Ombudsman - (916) 376-8910 Emergency: (800) 231-4024
The Long Term Care Ombudsman is responsible for representing the residents at long-term care facility, nursing home, residential care facility or assisted living facilities these facilities by investigating and resolving complaints.