MSP provides signs of abuse in elderly

By IAN MINIELLY

iminielly@yourdailyglobe.com

Wakefield — According to trooper Jerry Mazurek with the Michigan State Police, over 500,000 older adults are abused or neglected nationwide each year.

Elders unable to protect themselves are the victims of neglect and exploitation because they are unable to protect themselves due to either advanced age and/or physical and mental impairment. The perpetrators of the abuse are often family members, friends, neighbors, and even their caregivers, with the abuse typically occurring in the home.

“There are six types of abuse that may happen to people over 60: physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, abandonment, and financial abuse,” according to Mazurek.

Common physical and behavioral indicators of abuse and/or neglect are:

—frequent arguments between caregiver and the elderly person

—unexplained signs of injury like bruises, welts, or scars

—unusual weight loss, malnutrition, or dehydration

—unsanitary living conditions

—desertion of the elder in public

—significant withdrawals from the elders financial accounts

— and threatening, belittling, or controlling caregiver behavior that is witnessed.

If you suspect elder abuse is occurring, call 855-444-3911. If they are in immediate danger, call 911.

Additional information can also be found at michigan.gov/dhs.