Recognizing Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation

What is Abuse?

Abuse is defined by the statutes as the willful infliction of physical pain, injury or mental anguish, unreasonable confinement, or the willful deprivation of services (by a caretaker), which are necessary to maintain the disabled adult's mental/physical health. Some indicators are:

bed sores
weight loss
willful confinement in a dangerous environment
inappropriate clothing for weather
fractures and dislocations
lacerations and abrasions
burns
injuries to the head, scalp, face
bruises (in various stages of healing) on upper arms (from shaking), around wrists or ankles (from being tied down), in shapes similar to objects (ropes, belts, hands), inside of thighs or arms
pain, itching, bleeding or bruising in the genital area
sexually transmitted diseases
low self-esteem
overly anxious or withdrawn
extreme changes in mood
depression
suicidal behavior
confusion or disorientation

What is Neglect?

Neglect is defined by the statutes as the inability of a disabled adult to provide the services which are necessary to maintain mental/physical health (Self Neglect), and who is not receiving services from his caretaker (Caretaker Neglect). Some indicators are:

Self Neglect

unable to cook, shop for food, bathe, toilet, dress appropriately
sudden weight loss
dehydration
signs of overmedication, undermedication, and/or misuse of medication
forgetfulness that causes dangerous situations (leaving stove/gas on)
aimless wandering/getting lost
living in unsafe dwelling
frequent accidents (falling, driving mishaps, starting fires)
elder left alone and deprived of stimulation and affection
malnutrition or diet inconsistent with medical condition (diabetes, etc.)

Caretaker Neglect

failure to manage resources to meet needs
failure to provide for medical needs
failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing
failure to provide appropriate supervision
failure to provide safe environment

What is Exploitation?

Exploitation is defined by the statutes as the improper use of a disabled adult or his resources for another's profit or advantage. Some indicators are: