A Warning Sign Check List That Your Disabled Loved One May Be Victimized
If you have a loved one – family, friend or neighbor – being cared for by a third party, here are some indicators that may tell you that something is occurring that shouldn’t.
Physical Abuse
- Fear of caregivers
- Unexplained injuries
- Delay in seeking treatment
- Over-sedation
- Unusual pattern of bruises
- History of changing doctors
- Scalp Injuries
Emotional Abuse
- Low self-esteem
- Appears nervous around caregiver
- Confused
- Suicidal
- Avoids eye contact with caregiver
- Fear of abandonment
- Lethargic or withdrawn
Sexual Abuse
- Unusual fear of person
- Stained, torn or bloody clothing
- Pain and bruising
- Change in sexual behavior
- Pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted diseases
Financial Abuse
- Unexplained missing items
- Failure to pay bills
- Inaccurate knowledge of finances
- Suddenly changing a will
- Going without affordable necessities
- Unusual withdrawals from bank account
Neglect
- Malnourishment
- Wandering without supervision
- Lack of heat/electricity
- Unkempt appearance
- Missing dentures, glasses, hearing aids
- Skin conditions or pressure sores
- Untreated medical problems
- Alcohol or medication abuse
Most victims of abuse or neglect feel depressed and anxious. While you shouldn’t jump to conclusions, you should take these indicators seriously. If you feel your loved one may be a victim, please feel free to contact us and we’ll help you sort it out. You can call us at 704-296-0055 or contact us through this website on the “Contact Us” page. We’ll do our best to give you good, responsible guidance and advice.
