Care Connection promotes elder abuse awareness

Elder abuse is much more common than many people would believe, as one in 10 older Americans will become an abuse victim, according to Christina Kanak, Regional Ombudsman Director for Care Connection.
Elder abuse takes many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, financial and neglectful, often with more than one form of abuse taking place simultaneously.
Older individuals are more likely to become victims of abuse because of social isolation, a lack of support services and community resources, and elders’ needs for help in carrying out daily activities, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse at the University of Southern California.
Everyone can help prevent elder abuse by taking these actions:
–Listen to older people and caregivers; understand the challenges and provide support.
–Educate others about the signs of abuse and how to get help.
–Report suspected abuse or neglect as soon as possible.
–Build a community that fosters social connections and supports.
–Reach out to Kanak (at 1-800-748-7826) and other professionals who can provide support.
Common signs that an elder may be the victim of abuse include:
–Increased fear or anxiety or unusual changes in behavior or sleep.
–Dehydration, weight loss, poor hygiene or torn, stained or bloody clothing.
–Missing eye glasses, walkers or medication.
–Injuries such as cuts, bruises or sores.
–Unsanitary living conditions or unattended medical needs.
–Unexplained sexually transmitted disease.
–Fraudulent signatures on financial documents, unpaid bills, or changes in spending patterns.
All individuals are encouraged to report abuse or neglect by calling the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210. If it is an emergency, call 911. For more information about elder abuse, call Kanak at 1-800-748-7826.