Elder Abuse Can Occur in Long Term Care Facilities

The following indicators by themselves do not necessarily signify abuse or neglect. However, they may be clues in assessing whether or not abuse or neglect exists

Physical Abuse Indicators

• Cuts, lacerations, puncture wounds
• Bruises, welts, discoloration
• Poor skin condition or poor skin hygiene
• Burns that may be caused by cigarettes, or friction from ropes or chains
• Dehydration or weight loss

Psychological/ Emotional Abuse Indicators

• Elder appears fearful, withdrawn and depressed
• Elder is hesitant to talk openly
• Helplessness
• Elder seems agitated

Financial Abuse Indicators

• Unusual or inappropriate activity in bank accounts
• Signatures on checks that do not resemble the elder's signature, or signed when older person cannot write
• Missing funds
• Deliberate isolation by friends and family resulting in elder having little contact with others
• Power of Attorney given, or recent changes or creation of will when person is incapable of making such decisions

Neglect Indicators

• Elder has rashes, sores
• Dirt, fecal/urine smell or other health safety hazards present
• Elder is malnourished, dehydrated, or has an untreated medical condition
• Elder is inadequately clothed

There is often great reluctance and/or fear on the part of the elderly resident to report abuse. The Ombudsman is sensitive to this and works closely with the resident gaining their confidence and reassuring them of confidentiality and resolution.

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect is occurring in any long term care facility within Ventura County, California, please contact Long Term Care Services of Ventura County, Inc. at 805-656-1986. Outside of Ventura County call your local Ombudsman office or the Ombudsman crisis line 1-800-231-4024.

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