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To report elder abuse call: 264-7669 or 1-800-371-7897 (Adult Protective Services)
2 Million Americans
16,000 Elderly Utahns
8,000 Elderly in Salt Lake County ...
Are abused, neglected or exploited every year -- but only 1 in 14 cases are reported. Most abuse is perpetrated by family members or other caregivers. There are four categories of elder abuse:
Physical Abuse: Willful, direct infliction of physical pain or injury or threat of injury; denial of physical and health related necessities of life.
Psychological Abuse: Removal of decision-making power; withholding of affection; social isolation.
Neglect: Failure of the caregiver or the individual to provide care, nutrition, clothing, shelter, medical care.
Exploitation: Unjust or improper use of an elderly person or his/her resources for profit.
WHO ARE THE VICTIMS?
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The Abused |
The Abuser |
| Over age 75 |
Middle aged |
| Female, single, widow |
Family member/caregiver |
| Progressive physical and or mental impairment |
Experiencing stress: financial problems, medical problems, marital conflict, substance abuse, unemployment |
| Socially isolated |
Experiencing increasing demands of caregiving role |
| Dependent on abuser for needs |
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| Denies abuse |
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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND
EXPLOITATION?
| Abuse |
Neglect |
Exploitation |
| Unexplained bruises or welts |
Dehydration |
Disappearance of possessions |
| Multiple bruises in various stages |
Malnourished |
Forced to sell house, change will |
| Unexplained fractures, abrasions, lacerations |
Inappropriate or soiled clothes |
Overcharged for home repairs |
| Over medicated |
Over medicated |
Forced to sign over control finances |
| Deserted or abandoned |
Inadequate living environment |
No money for food or clothes |
| Low self-esteem/loss of self determination |
Unable to afford social activities |
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| Withdrawn, passive |
Lack of glasses, dentures,hearing aids |
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| Fearful |
Unattended |
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| Depressed, hopeless |
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