What Should I Know about Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse covers a number of offenses.

Are you a senior?

Do you have an elderly loved one?

If so, you cannot afford to be ignorant of elder abuse realities.

According to a recent The Carroll County Times of Westminster MD article titled “Know the signs of elder abuse and report it if necessary,” you should be vigilant and report any suspicions you may have.

First, you need to know what constitutes elder abuse.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines elder abuse as "a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person."

Elder abuse goes by several names—all equally serious.

What are they?

• Senior abuse
• Abuse of older adults
• Abuse in later life
• Abuse of older men
• Abuse of older women
• Elder mistreatment

There are also many different types of abuse.

Like what?

• Psychological abuse
• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Isolation
• Abandonment
• Neglect
• Financial Exploitation
• Material exploitation
• Self-neglect

You are now educated on the essence of elder abuse.

Now be vigilant.

Strangers can victimize your loved one.

Unfortunately, however, perpetrators are also often family members or caregivers.

If you are suspicious of elder abuse, take action

Notify your local law enforcement. 

Remember: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When making your financial, tax and estate plans, do not go it alone. Be sure to engage competent professional counsel.

For more information about estate planning in Overland Park, KS (and throughout the rest of Kansas and Missouri), visit our estate planning website and be sure to subscribe to our complimentary estate planning e-newsletter while you are there.

Reference: Carroll County Times (Westminster MD) (July 14, 2017) “Know the signs of elder abuse and report it if necessary”