Elder Abuse
Under Ohio law, elder abuse is defined as the infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or cruel punishment upon an adult age 60 or older. It involves any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or other person that causes harm or creates a serious risk of harm.
Read on to learn the signs—information adapted from the U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative. Learn more at Elder Justice Initiative – Red Flags of Elder Abuse.
Emotional abuse can be difficult to recognize because it often leaves no physical signs. Watch for changes in behavior, mood, or interactions with caregivers and others.
Feeling stress, anxiety, fear, or agitation
Becoming withdrawn or reluctant to communicate with others
Changes in behavior, seeing signs of repetitive rocking, biting or self-soothing behaviors.
Witnessing a caregiver who intimidates or isolates the older adult
Noticable changes in sleeping patterns or eating habits
Sudden personality changes, excessive apologizing, fearfulness, or loss of confidence
Signs of depression or emotional distress
An older adult’s report of being verbally threatened, yelled at, or ignored
Warning signs of physical abuse
Warning signs of emotional and psychological abuse
These signs do not always indicate abuse, but they may be warning signs that warrant further attention or investigation.
Unexplained bruises, black eyes, welts, or marks on the body
Bone fractures, broken bones, or head injuries
Open wounds or injuries that appear untreated
Sprains, dislocations, or internal injuries
Broken eyeglasses or signs of forced restraint
Medication overdose or missed doses of prescribed drugs
Sudden change in mood or behavior
The caregiver is preventing family or professionals from speaking with the adult in private
The older adult reports they have been hit, slapped, kicked, or mistreated
Warning signs of financial exploitation
Financial exploitation is one of the most common forms of elder abuse. It occurs when someone improperly uses an older adult's money, property, or assets for personal gain.
Unexplained withdrawals, transfers, or large purchases from bank accounts
Sudden changes or additions to an older adult’s bank signature card
Unauthorized use of debit or ATM cards
Unexpected changes to wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other financial documents
Missing money, valuables, or personal belongings
Unpaid bills or inadequate care despite having sufficient financial resources
Signs of forged signatures or financial transactions
Relatives or friends suddenly having access and becoming involved in financial matters
Unexplained transfers of property, money, or assets
Warning signs of neglect and abandonment
Neglect occurs when an older adult's basic needs, such as food, shelter, medical care, hygiene, or supervision, are not adequately met. Neglect may be intentional or the result of a caregiver being unable to provide necessary care.
Signs of dehydration, malnutrition, poor hygiene, or untreated bedsores
Medical conditions or health concerns that are ignored or left untreated
Unsafe living conditions, lack of heat, water, electricity, or necessities
Unsanitary living environments, including excessive dirt, pests, soiled bedding, or strong odors
Abandonment at a hospital, care facility, or public location
Limited or lack of food in the refrigerator or cupboards
Warning signs of sexual abuse
Sexual abuse includes any non-consensual sexual contact, activity, or exploitation involving an older adult. Warning signs may be physical, emotional, or behavioral.
Unexplained bruising, injuries, or marks around the breasts, genital area, or inner thighs
Sexually transmitted infections or genital infections without a clear explanation
Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding, pain, or irritation
Sudden changes in behavior, including fear, anxiety, or withdrawal
Evidence of explicit material that has been shown or used with an older adult who may not be able to provide consent
Bloodstains found on sheets, linens, or clothing
Reports from the older adult that they have been sexually assaulted or touched without consent