<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Abuse is not just physical, it can be emotional and psychological, or include financial exploitation. Neglect is of grave concern, too, because in cases of neglect elders are not getting the care they need and deserve. Abusers can knowingly or unknowingly engage in such acts and may even demonstrate that they have good intentions. Abuse and neglect, no matter how it is posed, is unacceptable.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation recommendations continue for those most susceptible to experience severe illness caused by the disease, including those 65 years of age and older and those with severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes (CDC<\/a>).\u00a0 Before the pandemic, social isolation was already a concern and an issue reported to our office\u2019s Elder Protection Initiative<\/a>.\u00a0 Now, while those most susceptible to illness remain in isolation, abuse and neglect can continue to occur for a longer period before it is seen by a bystander and reported.\u00a0 Each of us must commit to protecting older adults.\u00a0\u00a0 Know the signs of elder abuse. The National Center on Elder Abuse<\/a> has outlined the signs as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Emotional and Behavioral:<\/strong> unusual changes in behavior, or sleep, fear or anxiety, isolated or not responsive, sadness<\/p>\n\n\n\n Physical<\/strong>: broken bones, bruises, and welts, cuts, sores, or burns, missing daily living aids, such as walker and hearing aids, torn or bloody underclothing, STDs without clear explanation, poor living conditions<\/p>\n\n\n\n Financial<\/strong>: unusual changes in bank account or money arrangement, unusual or quick changes in will or other financial documents, fake signatures on financial documents, unpaid bills Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. On this day, let\u2019s commit to reporting elder abuse and neglect and financial exploitation when we see it. As good neighbors and compassionate people, we must report whenever we see signs of abuse and neglect. We may be the only one who sees it and the only one who can report it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.uvm.edu\/cap\/files\/2020\/06\/2020-World-Elder-Abuse-Awareness-Day-Help-stop-elder-abuse.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
As a reporter, you are not alone, there are many agencies and organizations that are essential to eliminating elder abuse. To simplify the reporting process, the following is a list of resources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n