\nStaff Writer<\/p>\n
Elderly people must often rely on others for things like trips to the doctor, handling their finances or chopping their firewood for winter.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\nRED FLAGS<\/strong><\/p>\n Warning signs of physical or emotional abuse:<\/p>\n \u2022 The older person talks about problems with family members or caregivers; expresses fear; there are verbal assaults, threats, intimidation, social isolation or over-medication; or the abuser withholds affection or uses silence or profanity.<\/p>\n Financial exploitation warning signs:<\/p>\n \u2022 There is a transfer of property or savings, excessive payment for care or services, a change in payee or power of attorney; the elder doesn’t know what happens to their money; personal belongings go missing; there are suspicious signatures on checks or documents; bills go unpaid; or there is an increase in credit card activity.<\/p>\n What families can do when abuse and exploitation is suspected:<\/p>\n \u2022 Listen to the older person’s concerns, don’t minimize or make excuses for the family member’s behavior, report suspicions of abuse to Adult Protective Services, Legal Services for the Elderly or police.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n The relationship can be fulfilling for both sides. But people who are closest to the elderly are also the most likely to take advantage of their vulnerability.<\/p>\n