Article by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2024 June)
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was created to raise awareness of the factors that contribute to the abuse of older adults worldwide and acknowledge elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. The abuse of older adults has far-reaching impacts both on individuals and the larger community, so it is important that we learn to recognize the signs of abuse and report it, while also taking steps to help prevent abuse.
Recognize the Signs of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes harm to an older adult. Types of abuse include physical, sexual, emotional/psychological, financial, neglect, or self-neglect. Elder abuse impacts people of all ages, identities, and backgrounds. Signs of abuse include:
Physical Signs
- Dehydration or unusual weight loss
- Missing daily living aids (glasses, walker, or medication)
- Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts, or sores
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- Unattended medical needs
- Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
Emotional and Behavioral Signs
- Increased fear or anxiety
- Isolation from friends or family
- Unusual changes in behavior or sleep
- Withdrawal from normal activities
Financial Signs
- Fraudulent signatures on financial documents
- Unusual or sudden changes in spending patterns
- Unpaid bills
If you see signs of abuse or suspected abuse, exploitation, neglect or self-neglect of an adult who is 60 years or older or is 18 years and older and incapacitated, call Adult Protective Services (APS) at 703-324-7450, TTY 711.
Prevent Abuse in Our Community
Reducing isolation of older adults is one way we can help prevent the abuse of older adults, especially self-neglect. Actions you can take include:
- Check in regularly with older relatives, friends, or neighbors by calling or visiting.
- Volunteer with Volunteer Solutions to assist older adults. Opportunities range from providing rides for doctor’s appointments and grocery shopping to social visits with older adults and family caretakers, either in person or by phone. Learn more at FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/volunteer-solutions.
- Volunteer with the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman program to advocate for residents of Long-Term Care facilities. Learn more at FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/long-term-care-ombudsman-program.
- Join an existing Village program in your community or create one in your neighborhood. Village programs offer support and access to services for older adults in the community. Learn more at FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/villages.
- Volunteer to drive older adults to medical appointments and other necessary trips. Learn about volunteer opportunities at nvrides.org.
Finish the Sentence Campaign
You can help raise awareness about elder abuse and champion elder justice! Participate in the Finish the Sentence campaign to encourage everyone to stand up to elder abuse by raising awareness, promoting education, and advocating for the rights of older adults. Learn how you can participate at eldermistreatment.usc.edu/finish-the-sentence.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).