When you're concerned about an elderly person.

Signs of Abuse:

  • Unexplained injuries – bruising, cuts, etc.
  • A decline in hygiene
  • Fear of being alone with caregiver
  • No access to food, medication, or transportation
  • Chronic unexplained physical ailments
  • Not getting medical needs met or missing appointments

What to Say

  • What would be helpful for you?
  • No one should hurt you.
  • Are you getting enough to eat?
  • Have you gotten your medication?
  • Is there another family member you’d like me to call?
  • How can I be helpful to you right now?
  • I’d like to be supportive. Can we talk about this again?

Always speak to the person you are concerned about privately.

Never speak to anyone else without their permission.

Call your local program to practice what to say and when to say it.

Decide to be a consistent support person, even when they don’t do what you want them to do.

Where to go for more help.