Obviously, this blog is dedicated to things that happen at the courthouse, but I thought I'd break with tradition and pass along this press release from Deputy Dawn Barkman:
As “elders” become more physically frail, they are less able to stand up to bullying or to fight back if attacked. They are also often a target for identity theft, fraud, and fall victim to a myriad of scams which ultimately drain their life savings.
Physical abuse most often occurs with those who are closest to the elder, be it a family member, spouse or caretaker. Institutional facilities, especially long-term care facilities, can also be a source of elder abuse. Financial abuse may include the above persons; however, it can also be committed by anyone the elder comes into contact with.
An older victim may not know how or where to seek help. Older adults often live alone or with family members and don’t interact with others in the community. They do not seek help for themselves because they either blame themselves for the abuse, or they tolerate and accept the abuse. Some types of abuse include:
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Physical Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Psychological/Emotional Abuse
Financial Abuse/Exploitation
Neglect
Self-Neglect
The most common of these allegations involve self-neglect situations where the senior’s safety or well-being is being compromised by their inability to take care of their basic needs, their medical needs, their finances, their home environment or their personal hygiene.
It may be difficult to tell whether abuse or neglect is occurring. In general, look for changes in the senior’s behavior or habits. Look at how the senior is communicating, signs of their emotional health, physical limitations, personal appearance, and the condition of their home and surroundings. These signs may not necessarily be proof of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, but may be clues that a problem exists and that a report needs to be made to Adult Protective Services or law enforcement.
If you suspect someone you care about is being abused or neglected, you can help. You do not need absolute proof to report suspected abuse. Contact Adult Protective Services (APS) in the Tucson area by calling 1-877-767-2385. Adult Protective Services investigates all reports of abuse and neglect as quickly as possible.
Call 911 if you believe a senior is in immediate danger.
