Recognizing the 7 Signs of Elder Abuse
                      
 
Recognizing the 7 Signs of Elder Abuse 
 
Thursday, April 27, 2023. 
It is essential to be aware of the indicators of elder abuse, including 
physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse, neglect, 
isolation, sexual abuse, and medical neglect. This article provides 
insight into these seven cues. It is important to take steps to protect 
your aging friends or family members before an issue arises. If you 
suspect the mistreatment of an older adult, it is critical to seek legal 
advice as soon as possible. 
Elder abuse, what is it? 
Elder abuse is a form of mistreatment and neglect often inflicted on elderly individuals living in nursing homes. 
This can include failing to complete tasks, acting intentionally, or not providing sufficient care as would be 
ordinarily expected of the institution. Such behavior can lead to health problems, injury, and even death for 
residents; regardless of whether an employee means ill intent, the staff is responsible for meeting their needs 
and fulfilling basic duties. 
The most common signs of elder abuse 
It is impossible to anticipate or anticipate nursing home mistreatment when placing a relative in a retirement care 
facility. If family members seem different in the nursing home, particularly if they seem uncomfortable throughout 
their stay, frequent check-ins can be a sign that maltreatment is occurring. Nursing home neglect can be detected 
by the following warning signals 
1. Reduced Mobility 
Nursing homes that house patients with restricted mobility typically aim to promote physical activity and prevent 
complications arising from inactivity. However, if a patient refuses to participate, it could be an indication of 
neglect. This may warrant further investigation to ensure that the patient is receiving the care and attention they 
require. 
2. New Injuries 
Sudden and unexplained injuries, such as those resulting from slip-and-fall accidents or physical abuse by staff 
members, are concerning signs of elder neglect. Failure to promptly treat these injuries only adds to the severity 
of the neglect. If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected or abused, seek legal assistance immediately 
to protect their rights and well-being. 
 
3. Poor Hygiene 
Nursing home residents, particularly those who are immobile, require assistance with personal hygiene tasks like 
bathing. The absence of such support can lead to poor hygiene and other associated health issues. As a loved 
one or caregiver, it's important to ensure that your loved one is receiving the necessary support and care to 
maintain their hygiene and well-being. If you suspect that your loved one is not receiving adequate care, seek 
legal assistance to protect their rights and hold the nursing home accountable. 
4. Mood Shifts 
Sustained exposure to staff abuse can have serious and long-lasting consequences, including post-traumatic 
stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other related conditions. Such experiences can also intensify 
one's feelings of contempt or fear toward nursing home staff. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused, 
it's crucial to take legal action immediately to protect their well-being and hold the responsible parties 
accountable. Our law firm is here to help you seek justice for your loved one's suffering. 
5. Missing Money 
Elderly residents in nursing homes are not immune to financial exploitation, particularly if they are vulnerable and 
easy targets. There have been instances where access to their financial assets has been stolen and utilized 
without their knowledge or consent. It's crucial to be vigilant and monitor the financial activity of your loved ones 
in nursing homes to prevent such instances from occurring. If you suspect financial abuse, seek legal assistance 
immediately to protect your rights and assets. 
6. Unexpected Weight Loss 
Depriving a nursing home resident of food can be considered a form of abuse, and if your loved one is reporting 
that they are not receiving adequate nutrition or losing weight at an alarming rate, this may be a sign of elder 
abuse. It's essential to pay close attention to your loved one's dietary habits and speak up if you suspect neglect 
or mistreatment. 
7. Lack of Involvement 
The effects of elder abuse can manifest in various ways, and one of the most noticeable signs is a change in 
behavior, such as withdrawal or a lack of enthusiasm for social activities with other residents. Verbal abuse, in 
particular, can have a significant impact on an elder's mental health, leading to feelings of shame, worthlessness, 
and social isolation. 
If you suspect your loved one is being subjected to verbal abuse in a nursing home, it's crucial to take immediate 
action to ensure their safety and well-being. 
Talk to an ATLINJ Georgia of Elder Abuse Lawyer 
Our law firm can assist you in identifying the signs of elder abuse and taking appropriate legal action to hold 
those responsible accountable for their actions. We understand the emotional and financial toll that elder abuse 
can take on families, and we are committed to helping you seek justice for your loved one. 
 
 
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