SHOW LOVE TO SENIORS

SHOW LOVE TO SENIORS!

February is a month often associated with love, adorned with red hearts in stores as people express their affection for special individuals through gifts like candy and flowers. This season of appreciation is a perfect opportunity to extend your love to elderly parents or grandparents by checking in on their well-being and living conditions to ensure their safety.

Elder abuse and neglect can occur in any demographic and can take place both at home and in care facilities. According to the National Center for Elder Abuse, approximately one in ten individuals over the age of 65 experience some form of abuse or neglect, whether intentional or unintentional. Alarmingly, for each reported case, there are an estimated 23 that go unreported.

Identifying early warning signs can help prevent neglect from escalating into more serious issues. Engaging in conversations with your elderly loved ones about their current circumstances and making plans for additional support can significantly lower the risk of them experiencing victimization. Physicians at the Center of Excellence in Elder Abuse have outlined key guidelines to help families evaluate the care of their loved ones:

Evaluate Living Conditions and Personal Care:

Check if your loved one’s home is clean and orderly. Are they maintaining personal hygiene? Do they have clean clothing, and is the refrigerator well-stocked? If they live alone, they may be struggling with self-neglect or malnutrition.

Monitor Mail and Financial Activities:

Take note of whether the mail is being opened regularly and if bills are being paid on time. A shift in their spending habits might indicate they’re being targeted by financial scams or mismanaged by those close to them.

Observe for Signs of Depression or Loneliness:

Ensure you spend enough time with them to notice any signs of anxiety or withdrawal, allowing them to express their feelings.

Check Medication Management and Medical Appointments:

Confirm that their medications are being refilled and taken correctly, and that they are attending regular medical check-ups, which are crucial for their overall health.

Accompany Them to Doctor Appointments if Needed:

Attend medical evaluations with them to ensure all health aspects, like vision, hearing, and nutrition, are being assessed.

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Look for Physical Signs of Abuse or Neglect:

Be alert to any cuts, bruises, or bedsores, as these may serve as indicators of mistreatment.

Evaluate Caregiver Relationships:

If they have help from a caregiver, it’s important to meet with the caregiver to assess the quality of care being provided. It might be a good time to reconsider their suitability for the role.

Foster Relationships with Neighbors:

Get to know your loved one’s neighbors by introducing yourself and sharing your contact information. Encourage them to reach out if they notice anything concerning or in case of an emergency.

Elderly family members may not always recognize their need for additional help, or they may be resistant to the idea. While it’s essential to address their need for support, it’s equally important to approach the situation delicately, respecting their feelings and preferences.

If you suspect that an elderly loved one may be vulnerable to neglect or abuse, contact Adult Protective Services.

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For Addtional Information Contact:

Geni Manning, Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist

469-556-1185