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The statistics are grim. In Colorado, more than 4,000
incidents of adult abuse, exploitation or neglect are reported
each year to county departments of social services and long-term
care ombudsmen. Many more go unreported.
Victims are at-risk adults age 18 or older who, because of
age or disability, are unable to protect themselves and have no
one to protect them. More than 70 percent are older than 60 and
are physically impaired or have some form of dementia. Younger
victims have physical or developmental disabilities.
For many, the abuse, exploitation or neglect comes at the
hands of a caregiver or family member. Often, the victim is
totally dependent on the abuser and is afraid to complain for
fear of reprisal. The abuse may be physical, emotional,
exploitation or neglect.
Warning signs of physical abuse are frequent injuries such
as bruises, burns or broken bones, especially when the
explanation for the injury does not seem plausible. Other signs
include over-medication or sedation; multiple bruises in various
stages of healing, especially on the inner arms or thighs; fear
or withdrawal; or being locked in a room or tied up.
Symptoms of emotional abuse include a sudden dramatic change
in the victim's behavior, such as withdrawal or depression, or a
caretaker who won't let the victim speak for him or herself or
who caretaker scolds, insults or threatens the person.
Sexual abuse could be occurring if there are signs of
sexually transmitted disease; irritation or injuries to the
mouth, genitals or anus; the person gets upset when changed or
bathed; or the person is fearful when with a particular person.
Neglect occurs if the person is living in a filthy
environment, if the clothing is inappropriate for the weather, or
if the person has poor hygiene or shows signs of malnutrition or
dehydration. Other signs include lack of medical attention,
including dentures, hearing aid or glasses.
Financial exploitation can show up as unusual activity in
the disabled person's bank account, such as sudden, large
withdrawals or expenditures not consistent with the victim's past
financial history. Also watch for use of ATMs by someone with no
history of using them or who cannot access them because of a
disability. Victims may have signed over rights without
understanding what they are signing. An example is signing over
title to their home in exchange for promise of "life-long care."
What can you do if you suspect such abuse? Report any
suspected cases to the Adult Services Division of Social
Services. Financial exploitation can also be reported to the
local district attorney or law enforcement. Consumer rip-offs can
be the basis for theft cases. If the victim is an at-risk adult,
special penalties may apply.
Victims often are unable to ask for help, because of fear or
disability. You do not need the victim's consent to make this
report. You may make an anonymous report. Under Colorado law, you
are protected from liability if you make the report in good
faith.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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