ABUSE DEFINITION INDICATORS
PHYSICAL - The infliction or threat of serious physical injury to an elder.
A. unexplained injuries, or injuries whose explanation is inconsistent with the nature of the injuries (including fractures, punctures, burns, etc.)
B. presence of old and new bruising, shape of bruising similar to an object (i.e. hand or finger prints)
C. extreme injury (stab or gunshot wounds)
SEXUAL - Any form of sexual contact or activity without the elder's consent or where the elder is incapable of providing adequate consent.
A. torn, stained or bloody underclothing
B. difficulty walking or sitting
C. pain, itching, bruising, bleeding in genital area
D. unexplained venereal disease or genital infections
EMOTIONAL - The infliction of mental or emotional anguish by threat, humiliation or other verbal or non-verbal conduct.
A. hypervigilance of abuser's actions, movements, etc.
B. change in eating or sleeping habits
C. depression, withdrawal, agitation
D. crying, shaking, trembling
E. exaggerated fear response
NEGLECT - The failure or refusal by a caretaker to provide one or more of the necessities essential for physical well-being.
A. dehydration, malnutrition
B. inadequate or inappropriate clothing
C. bed sores
D. unexplained deterioration of health
E. absence of eyeglasses, hearing aides, etc.
F. inadequate supervision, medical care
FINANCIAL - The unauthorized use of funds or resources of an elder which result in a substantial loss to the elder or gain to another person.
A. lack of access to check book by elder
B. reports of missing valuables
C. lack of access to cash or no cash available
D. disparity between income/assets and lifestyle
E. questionable transfer of property/assets
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